I Want to be the Apple that Didn't Fall Far from Her Tree

Goodness gracious! I checked my blog archives and realized that it has been five years, 2015, since I gave credit to where credit is due for ME! Besides God, of course, it is to my dad and precious mother. Today is Mom’s birthday and the cast of characters for this 109th birthday celebration includes Father God, Jesus, the angels, her parents, siblings, my dad and all their children – except for this one girl who is the last one standing on this side of heaven.

We should be big on remembering those responsible for our existence. Happy Birthday to my sweet mama! The best of me came from her. Before I was a twinkle in her eyes, Mom raised my dad’s five and 3 years old children as her own. Then there was my sister born twelve years before me. I wasn’t planned, except God used a train accident that my Mom was in to tweek and rearrange her birthing parts to have me. So, whoala – the final hoorah was ME!

If ever there was an angel on earth, it was my mom. She was my mentor and everything a mother should be. She selflessly gave -- "Just give me the fried chicken neck -- that's good enough for me." She always forgave -- "It's okay. God forgives me all the time. I sure can forgive you." She loved unconditionally and overlooked the weaknesses of others.

Her integrity and honesty were of the utmost importance to her. She gave me boundaries that worked: "Let your conscience be your guide." Those words rang in my ears each time I was choosing right or wrong. Our church was her second home -- volunteering, serving and giving. She showed me undaunted faith and determination in the toughest of times when my dad was so sick and when our finances were so meager. I heard her praying for me and my siblings from her bedroom. She was unquestionably the most tender, kind-hearted, loving, gentle, caring and pure woman I have ever known. To this day she remains my hero. Her example made me a better me.

Since my mom has much better things to do than to recognize this tribute, I give it more for you and me to see what a role model -- in the truest sense of the words -- looks like. It is not the things or treasures or inheritance or life insurance or jewelry -- that make us. What makes us, and the legacy we leave to our children, are the things that money could never buy. Her influence on me caused me to be honest, to love and care passionately, to put my faith in God during the best and worst of times, to give and to suck it up when I've been hurt or offended, to trust in God's plans for my life and to leave my family with something so much more than the things that can be bought. I intend to leave them the very best of me.....and the very best of me is my precious mother's example. What are those things that you'll leave to your children and grandchildren? "Her children rise up, and call her blessed...." Proverbs 31:28

She Opens Her Mouth with Wisdom

I'm still in Austin -- was planning only a few days, but when I was needed for a project, I stayed a few days longer. Then, I was leaving on Thursday, but my precious son, in a stance that reminded me of him as a little boy, said, "Mommy, would you please stay for Mother's Day? I want to take care of my girls!" Like he was as a little boy, I couldn't resist those eyes or plea. But, then, to my utter surprise last night, in walks my crew from Frisco. Oh, the tears that came. My sweet Ryan and Shawntel surprised me by asking them to join us for Mother's Day weekend! So here I am all wrapped up in love this morning the day before Mother's Day.

One of my greatest joys in life has been to be a mother....to my own children AND to those God put into my life "to mother". Nothing is so dear as the results of a hug or a word of wisdom I shared with someone who needed that hug or word. It is so unique and special how God designed a woman’s heart to love and nurture tenderly and teach wisely.

Leaving home at 17 to marry, I sure needed my mom's wisdom. Besides washing clothes and cooking tips, I needed her wisdom about sharing life with a man. I remember when I wanted to run "back home" to her because of what seemed to be the biggest "spat" EVER. I'm so glad she wouldn't let me. She reminded me that I HAD left "home", and my new home was with the man I loved and "this little spat would pass". And, it did.

Then, one year later, our son was born and I needed her even more. The times he was sick (and, the times I got sick), the times when, as a couple, we hit a rough patch and life seemed so out of control, the times when I needed her voice to comfort me. In God’s sovereign plan for motherhood, He gave me a mother that was my mentor, my best friend and my confidant. And, not only did He give me my mother, but He gave me the dearest mother-in-law EVER. God also gave me other older women in age and in faith (and continues to do so) that have come alongside and loved me “like a mother.”

After these many seasons of my life, watching and learning from my resilient, strong, and determined Mom during the time of my daddy's long illness, and then as a single mom after he graduated to heaven, to my own learning to be Mom to my children and to other young women, I can assure you that God has special plans for women. He gave us life to give life to others. God's plans for us ensure that we are "mothered" and that we "mother".

Do you still have your Mom with you today? Treasure her. If not, treasure her because she gave us YOU! Tomorrow will be a day of celebrating moms, but perhaps we might consider being “like a mother” to those who need a mentor. Just maybe we are the answer to someone's prayers.

I honor all the beautiful and selfless ladies that "mother" those around them with God's love and with His wisdom that encourages and blesses them.

Proverbs 31:26 "She opens her mouth with wisdom, and the teaching of kindness is on her tongue."

Who is YOUR Someone?

President Ronald Reagan coined the phrase: “We can’t help everyone, but everyone can help someone.” That quote speaks volumes to me when I think about the "someones" that might have passed my way, literally....passed, without me giving them a second thought. I might have been so caught up in my own little world, I didn't even notice the "neon sign" that God was flashing or maybe it wasn't flashing -- it was the face of a lonely or hurting "someone", and I missed them.

God sends "someones" to us as the answer to their prayers and because we have prayed to be the answer to someone's prayer. We pray or sing: "Make me more like You, Jesus, make me more like You. Give me a heart that's filled with love and make me more like You." And, though we mean well as we pray and sing those words....we are so distracted by this and that, that we miss the opportunities to be His hands extended. Shouldn't we slow down and be intentional and focused to be that difference maker to a "someone"?

We can't be an encourager to everyone but we can be an encourager to someone. We can create our own version of that sentence, too: "I can’t be a ___________ to everyone but I can be a ___________ to someone. What would you write there—friend, leader, mentor, counselor, teacher?

Whatever and whoever it is, I’m convinced it matters. So, let's ask: “Who is my someone?” In other words, who do I know that God has asked me to serve today? It’s another version of the parable Jesus told of the shepherd who left the ninety-nine to go look for the one. I don’t think this literally means we’re only to serve one person. I think it’s more about understanding that we’re not called to anonymous crowds. We are called to relationships and connecting with each other in meaningful ways that heal and restore.

Jesus didn't heal everyone in Israel while He was here. Instead He lived with focus and intention, only doing what His Father asked Him to do. Aw! FOCUS and INTENTION! Following His example means we don't have to be that "someone" that EVERYONE needs. We can let go of that guilt that we are not doing more. But, we sure can love well the people right in front of us with focus and intention, and trust God is the One taking care of the whole big, wide world. We can’t be all things to everyone but we can be something to someone today.

A Treat for 97 Years

This morning, I’ll be heading to Tulsa to celebrate Mom and her 97th Birthday! It’s truly a day of celebrating – not just a mother-in-law, but a dear friend, mentor, and mother. God brought this precious treat to us on October 31st, 1922. I'm sure He had a hand in her being named “Lydia" which means “worshipper of God“! And true to her name, she has been a true worshipper of God. You'll find her at any given time with her Bible in hand -- reading and praying for her family and friends. Many times you’ll find her on the phone encouraging someone.

"Mom means the world to me. Were it not for her, I wouldn't have been blessed with the love and joy of having her son as my beloved husband and our children and grandchildren. She has been a true gift to all who know her, leaving her mark on so many lives, including mine. Though she's my mother-in-law, it has always been so natural to call her "Mom". She always treated me like a daughter. She loved me when I was 12-years-old and was an accomplice with my mom in ensuring their two kiddos would marry AND stay married! Their strategies (and many prayers) worked well!

I know many funny, and often "catty" remarks said about "mother-in-laws". That's too bad, because if it weren't for our in-laws we would never have been blessed with our sweethearts. We should love, respect, appreciate, and honor them. And, isn't that the kind of "in-law" we want to be for our children's and grandchildren's spouses?

I'm putting Mom out there today -- front and center -- for you to see what a mother-in-law should look like. Not the exterior, though she is and always has been a beautiful, stately woman, but she did the best of what God called her to do. She walked His walk AND talked His talk. She has been a Proverbs 31 woman -- the one that her children ALL rise up and call her blessed. She sure makes me want to up my game!

Mom, I celebrate the gift of you in my life and to so many others who have been impacted by your grace and beauty for so many years! I love you so much.







Mom means the world to me. Were it not for her, I wouldn't have been blessed with the love and joy of having her son as my beloved husband and our children and grandchildren. She has been a true gift to all who know her, leaving her mark on so many lives, including mine. Though she's my mother-in-law, it has always been so natural to call her "Mom". She always treated me like a daughter. She loved me when I was 12-years-old and was an accomplice with my mom in ensuring their two kiddos would marry AND stay married! Their strategies (and many prayers) worked well!

I know many funny, and often "catty" remarks said about "mother-in-laws". That's too bad, because if it weren't for our in-laws we would never have been blessed with our sweethearts. We should love, respect, appreciate, and honor them. And, isn't that the kind of "in-law" we want to be for our children's and grandchildren's spouses?

I'm putting Mom out there today -- front and center -- for you to see what a mother-in-law should look like. Not the exterior, though she is and always has been a beautiful, stately woman, but she did the best of what God called her to do. She walked His walk AND talked His talk. She has been a Proverbs 31 woman -- the one that her children ALL rise up and call her blessed. She sure makes me want to up my game!

Mom, I celebrate the gift of you in my life and to so many others who have been impacted by your grace and beauty for so many years! I love you so much.

Inhale -- Exhale -- Breathe Deeply -- Repeat

My blog today is brought to you from the post of my daughter's protégé, Tabitha Blue. She has new twin baby boys so now she's a mom of six. Tabitha came into our lives when she was eleven years old after my daughter was the invited guest speaker at her parent's church. It was when I was Staci's travel companion and we were traveling around the U.S. and abroad sharing God's love and power. Tabitha's parents had the foresight to invest in their daughter's future and asked Staci to be Tabitha's mentor. At that young age, she travelled with us, helped at our product table (pictured here). She duplicated Staci's every move: her Bible study, her prayer life, her speaking and singing. I remember that young girl's trepidation when Staci insisted she speak on stage. She did -- masterfully. The rest is history because this beautiful, talented mom, devoted pastor's wife, writer, model, and brilliant lifestyle blogger mentors others as she lives her life outloud as a lover of God, family and others. She shares her real life experiences as she inhales and exhales life and all it brings. I'm so proud of the incredible woman she has become.

Now, for her blog that I read this morning: Happy FOUR weeks #babybluetwins! Let’s just keep the fact that we went out to find pumpkins today while the big kids were in school a secret. 🍂🎃🍁Sound good? Really though, these two little pumpkins were getting checked out more than the gourds from the patch. And also? It was SO HOT, I lasted about 3 minutes and then had to bail... so basically we took this photo and ran. 😂😂😂 And can I just mention that the 3-4 week growth spurt cluster feeding thing is sleep-deprivingly brutal with two?! I have a new mad respect for #twinmoms. Send me allll the nipple cream. And sweet Jesus, I’m tired. But I’m also so in love. And our house is a mess, but I’m also feeling content. And my hair SERIOUSLY needs a wash. But even with the craziness of newborn life, I melt at those sweet faces! And I tend to ramble and overshare when I’m sleepy, so clearly that explains a lot."

Here is my two cents worth on what I read. Regardless whether we have brand new twins or we have two children or no children at all -- life is about breathing -- inhaling and exhaling -- often taking deeper, longer breaths, sometimes gasping for breath and sometimes freely flowing -- not even thinking about breathing at all. In the midst of the craziness of life, I see finding the gratitude of this moment the main thing. When the moment seems hurrifically painful....eyes wide open sees the beauty right in the middle of the pain. When the moment is chaos, eyes wide open embraces contentment that "it is well with my soul". When the elements around create heat and discomfort -- we still seize the opportunity to make a memory. Today I am Tabitha's protege as I learn, even in my senior moments of life to breathe and appreciate this moment and even breathing in the gratitude of yesterdays. "Let everything that has breath praise the Lord! Praise the Lord!" Psalm 150:6

You can enjoy Tabitha's blog at freshmommyblog.com

#TBT – Grateful for Praying Matriarchs

I don’t see as many Throwback Thursday photos as I once did, so I’m reviving it today. Just a few days before celebrating Mother’s Day, I wanted to pay tribute to my praying matriarchs: on the left, my mother-in-law, Lydia Wuerch (still with us and doing so well at 96) and on the right, my angel Mom, Edna Wheat. These two women were my mentors and the greatest influences I could have ever had as Godly women and mothers. Best friends, they were also visionaries. They KNEW that their two kids were meant for each other.

Last week, after I asked a radiology technician if he had a family, he shared: “Oh yes. I’m married with three children. Our marriage was arranged.” I quickly injected “Mine, too! I’ll tell you about mine after you tell me about yours!” He went on. “My parents wanted me to marry this girl I had never met. I told them that I didn’t want an arranged marriage. But, I honored them and flew to her country to meet her. We met. Our love was immediate. We married the next day. She is the love of my life. My parents prayed about it and I prayed about it and I know God gave her to me.”

My "praying" grandmother introduced me to my future husband at age 12. She was the go-between saying “Ronnie Wuerch likes you” and back to him, “Donna Sue likes you”. Between her, my mother, my husband’s mother AND God, our marriage was arranged. I owe so much of who I am to those three powerful, praying women of God. They literally prayed us together -- and those prayers kept us together. We watched their example as they went through tough times, and came through them because of their unwavering faith. They impressed upon us that tough times don't last, but tough people who believe in commitment, keeping their promises and vows -- that they'll be honored for keeping them. How I thank them for their unwavering support and relentless prayers for us. They not only talked the talk -- they walked the walk in their own lives.

I honor these precious matriarchs and all they've stood for, lived for and set the example for us to follow. By their example, I've learned that praying for our children, sharing our years of wisdom-learned with them is part of God’s plan in “Training them up in the ways they should go and when they’re old, they’ll not depart from it” (Proverbs 22:6).

On this #TBT, I must honor the greatest Mother of all -- our Lord’s most blessed-among-women Mother Mary. Just think about the great responsibility she had for raising the Son of God. Her greatest example was “She pondered. She treasured these things in her heart.” I know we mamas do a lot of that, and it wouldn’t hurt at all to amp up the pondering and treasuring instead of speaking our mind so much. I’m quite sure Mary had the same instincts of motherhood that we have – doting, imagining her Son's future, wanting Him to flourish. Luke 2:52 says “And Jesus grew in wisdom and stature, and in favor with God and man.” I imagine that if Jesus were here with us in the flesh today, He would probably talk about His Mama and what she meant to Him. He might say something like this: “It was my Mom’s wisdom, influence, support, and love that molded me into the Man of God I was destined to be! She encouraged me and instilled in me there wasn’t anything I couldn’t accomplish and do. Her unconditional love inspired me to love unconditionally. She always believed in me. She always prayed for me.”

And those are the words I say about my grandmother and my two moms. And those are the desires I have for being that mother and grandmother to my beloveds.

(FYI -- the family photo is from Mother's Day, 1968, and is left to right: My grandmother (the arranger), my mom, my husband's grandparents, my mother and father-in-law, me, Ron and Ryan)

A Little Band of Women Who Are Still Here and Not Done

Up until this weekend, I was in the throes of ramrodding a retreat in Tulsa for my beloved Sister Marie Pierre – now age 90. In this case, “ramrodding” meant connecting with many women who had attended one of her 40 years of retreats. Obviously, while I was going through the list, I found many who had gone on to be with the Lord, others who are dealing with a debilitating illness or have had recent surgeries, and others who are caring for very ill loved ones. My, oh my, how time changes the complexion of “The Way We Were and The Way We Are” today!

For as long as I can remember, this group of women is likened to the Bible sisters, Martha and Mary. We have been “doers AND lovers”. We DO love Jesus and others with all our hearts (they sure loved me in some of my toughest times) and we are women who are relentless in our faith AND faithfulness (serving in word and deed). But, this retreat reunion weekend was about being “Marys at the feet of Jesus and Sister Pierre.” Unquestionably, the expectations for our hearts and souls to be touched went way beyond what we had expected.

Sister Pierre, a living saint in our eyes, is a mentor, a brilliant Bible scholar, a stand-up comedian (she won’t admit to that one, but those of us in her realm of influence would tell you most comedians couldn’t hold a candle to her wit) and held an annual retreat in an off-the-beaten-path location for 40 years. She retired in 2013 which meant the retirement of our annual retreats. Just a little chat about our retreats sparked her to say: “Wouldn’t it be wonderful to have a retreat reunion?” That was all we needed to say “GAME ON!” We needed this refreshing. We needed the rekindling of who we are and who God intended us to be. We needed a “refresher” of God’s goodness and mercy and to remember how much we are loved, and in Sister Pierre’s words – how “unique and irreplaceable” we are.

This sweet, precious woman is hunched over as she pushes her walker up and down the halls of St. Joseph’s Monastery. Though her precious body bears the marks of age and osteoporosis, her mind is so sharp. I am always taken back in her presence – back to what an ultimate sacrifice, devotion, and commitment to Christ look like. How can anyone give up family, marriage, having children, enjoying the excitement of the world and all it affords to be such a fully committed, devoted follower of Christ? She did just that – as a young girl to this day. She incredibly models what sitting at the feet of Jesus looks like, but then getting up and going about telling others about Jesus as Mary Magdalene did.

We had the opportunity to share “retreat” memories. We remembered her “talks” that always encouraged and challenged us and then she’d send us outdoors by the lake and God’s creation to reflect on what she had spoken to us about. Of course, God met us in his creation and we’d come back in and share what we heard Him say to us. Being away from the hustle and bustle at home – to BEING present with God and each other. We felt loved and secure in our Father’s love.

I'm sure the women who followed Jesus felt the same way. If only our world used the example of Jesus and how He loved and respected women. In Luke 8 we see there was a band of women followers who traveled with Him and His disciples. Those women came from all walks of life and some had questionable backgrounds, but here’s the common thread – each of them experienced healing through their encounter with Christ.

The women that Jesus touched and loved is a mighty indicator of His love for us. The women at the foot of the cross and at the tomb held a tiny flame of faith. That flame of faith may have burned high, and it may have burned low, but the flame never went out, and their faith was rewarded. Our little band of retreat women celebrated that love He has for us. Our flame of faith, too, may burn high and it may burn low, but our flame never goes out because we have faith in His Word that “nothing is impossible with Him".

What BAND do you belong to? If you don’t have a group that lifts you higher, that is willing to run to the finish line with you, that encourages you to go the distance, that makes you better and gives you a good kick-in-the-place-you-sit-on every now and again, I urge you to find a BAND too. Being a little band of women or men….can certainly keep you going….especially when the going gets tough.

Being an Influencer

Okay....this is longer than my usual "long", but it describes major influencers in my life. When I come to Tulsa, I squeeze in as much as possible because there are so many precious friends and family here. Yesterday was no exception. First was attending mass at my home parish and sitting beside my Tulsa “family” who mean the world to me. My godson brought us all together when he was a very sick newborn. My husband and I fell in love with this family long before his birth, but it was his little precious and vulnerable life that cemented us all together. Isn’t it amazing how what seems to be the worst of times, brings out the best in people and the best of times? Owen is 13 now so it’s been 13 years of watching God perform miracle after miracle in his life. Since my husband passed away, Owen has taken his place beside me in church and he still holds my hand and wraps his arms around me with abandon. Be still my heart! I was thrilled to have lunch with them and seeing the two youngest in their costumes for Trunk or Treat that followed. This family has been amazing influencers in my life.

After church and before lunch, I made a couple of quick visits to see two amazing “older” women. My first visit was to see Margaret, the mother of my brother-in-law, She lives in a skilled nursing facility, If you need a pick-me-up, go see her. I walked in her room and she was beaming from ear-to-ear and excited to tell me “I’m 96 years old now! Just look at these paintings on my walls. I painted them all!” Margaret is a dear, optimistic, light-hearted friend that as long as I’ve known her, her outgoing, and warm personality made me feel loved. She influenced me.

Then I headed over to spend time with my mother-in-law. I took her dinner the night before and we caught up then, but yesterday I savored our time together once again. She's gone through a lot physically, but now that she lives with Karen, my husband’s sister, she's become stronger and filled with so much vitality. She boasted “I’ve gained five pounds!” And that says a lot! I can’t begin to tell you how much she has influenced my life -- the most of which are her prayers for us. I asked her “What are you going to do today?” She quickly responded, “I’ve got lots of calls to make!” She has a list of people she calls to encourage. She is sure not done yet. She’ll be 96 on Wednesday.

Lastly, I made my way to another dear friend and mentor. Oh, how I love this precious saint, Sister Marie Pierre. After 50+ years of ministry, she retired and lives in a small space at St. Joseph's Monastery but it is everything she hoped for in this season of her life. A few months ago she had a pretty bad fall and had to have hip surgery. I was shocked to see that she was waiting at the door with her walker for me when I arrived. She wasn’t setting any records, but she was up and moving. Another nun waited with her and she asked: “Are you a teacher?” I replied, “Yes, I am, but I’m also one of Sister Pierre’s children.” We made each other cry as we shared sweet memories, and about our future....getting to graduate to heaven. We talked about how our loved ones and the saints and Jesus are cheering us on to the finish line. I could tell she is longing for the day when she'll go home, but in the meantime, sitting at her feet, feeling God's presence and His peace all around her, is the place to be. God continues to use her to touch our lives. She has MANY children -- of course, not biologically, but she sure had a hand in raising many of us in the ways we should go.

Why do I go into so much detail about my life and share it on social media? One, it will be forever an archive to remind me of those people who passed my way. I’m quite sure they were all a part of God’s Master Plan for my life. Placing value on those people and acknowledging them as precious and valuable makes them matter in the grand scheme of God’s almighty handiwork. I love to give credit where credit is due. Each teacher, mentor, encourager, family member, friend, and even casual acquaintance are strategic in God’s wisdom to co-partner with Him. I am so grateful for those who helped “make” me.

The point is to embrace God’s plan AND people that come into our lives – there’s a reason for them all. I’m so thankful that mine has made me purposeful in my mission and determination to finish strong. Perhaps you’re thinking of your own life and those who have contributed to who you are today. Maybe phone them or pay them a visit to let them know how thankful you are for them. Why do I go into so much detail about my life and share it on social media? One, it will be archived to remind me of those people who partnered with God to fulfill His Master Plan in my life. Acknowledging them is giving credit where credit is due. Each teacher, mentor, encourager, family member, friend, and even casual acquaintance are strategically placed in our lives by God. I am so grateful for those who helped “make” me.

The point is to embrace God’s plan AND people that come into our lives. There is a reason for them all. I’m so thankful that mine has made me purposeful in my mission and determination to finish strong. Perhaps you’re thinking of your own life and those who have contributed to who you are today. Maybe phone them or pay them a visit to let them know how thankful you are for them.

The Older Teach the Younger

We Can Learn From Each Other
There is so much beauty in the scripture in Titus 2:3-5 which talks about older women teaching younger women. I'm so grateful for how that scripture has played out in my life. Many older women (in faith AND age) influenced me as they lived out their faith before me. The role has reversed as, now, I get to be an influencer to younger women. I love responding to a young mom who messages me "HELP!!! What do I do?" Or when a middle-aged daughter shares her plight of caring for her 80+-year-old mom who recently suffered a stroke. I draw from my well of experiences when, as a young wife, mom, and daughter, faced similar times. Much of the stuff of life we go through and how we cope and succeed through it all is for others to know "We survive!" Even my "widow" experiences have helped other widows become warrior women who realize God still has purposes for their lives and then turn their mourning into dancing.

Who are qualified to be the "older" or the "younger" women? If someone is younger in their faith or in life, then we are the older. I saw my granddaughter encourage her younger (in faith) friend. I've seen you sweet moms who figured out the ropes of nursing, getting your little ones to sleep through the night, or the method to use for potty training be the "older" women to those who are "less traveled" on the "mommy" road.

I think about some of you, my sweet sisters, that think you don't fit into either category. You think what you do doesn't count because you're doing it at 2 am in the morning when no one is looking -- except for your sweet baby who has lost his pacifier, AGAIN. Or because you think you need a podium for your voice to matter or make a difference.

I want to take your sweet faces between my hands and tell you "You ARE making a difference." Podiums and pulpits are not just found in churches. Speeches do not just come from stages. I'm telling you diapers, laundry, and a sink full of dishes are serious theology. You are the Proverbs 31 woman who rises while it's still dark to provide for your family. You are teaching your children what a devoted follower of Christ looks and acts like. The hours that you sow juggling sports practices, ballet, and football games or carefully navigating the selection of your daughter's prom dress so it's NOT too low cut in the front, is your mission field. You are teaching and training and being the example of faithfulness and resilience and determination. When you break up conflict between your kids, you are being the peacemaker that, one day, they'll remember how you resolved conflict when they're having to do that with their kids. You ARE in ministry.

It is an honor to offer my life, my lessons learned and failed to my sisters who, on a daily basis, maneuver your lives with precision and are teaching the younger. And while you are teaching the younger, those of us who passed that way long ago.....are engaged in taking care of elderly parents, coping with aging bodies, carrying on when a cherished loved one passes away. But, all is well, because we have "older" teachers that showed us the way. We will survive because we know we're here to grow, mature, train, teach and walk hand in hand -- making our world a better place to be because we cared AND shared and mentored those who became leaders worth following!

This is Where the Best of Me Came From

My sweet Mom, Edna Pearl Wheat, is 107 years old today and she’s having the time of her “forever after” life in heaven. These photos are of her and my granddaughter, Alexia Wallace, 15 years ago. She was in her element when she was holding the babies. I love the "before" and "after" of Alexia getting hold of that bottle. LOL!

I treasure photos like this because it reminds me of where the best of me came from. If ever there was an angel on earth, it was her. She was my mentor, role model and everything a mother should be. She selflessly gave: "Just give me the fried chicken neck -- that's good enough for me." She always forgave -- "It's okay. God forgives me all the time. I sure can forgive you." She unconditionally loved: "It's okay that they (my siblings that lived in other states) don't write or call me much. I love and pray for them anyway." Her integrity and honesty were of utmost importance to her. I'll never forget the day as a tiny tot that I saw a package of gum on the floor in the store and put it in my pocket. I reasoned that "if it's on the floor, it's okay to have it". When she found it in my pocket, she marched me back into the store to admit my wrong-doing. That incident and lesson stuck with me like glue.

She gave me boundaries that worked: "Let your conscience be your guide." It was those words that guided me when I was choosing right or wrong. She rarely missed a church service -- Wednesday night, Friday prayer meeting, women's meetings, Sunday School AND church -- twice on Sunday. She sacrificed her own needs for my needs. She demonstrated undaunted faith and determination in the toughest of times when my dad was so sick and when our finances were so meager. I heard her praying for me and my siblings from her bedroom. She was the most tender, kind-hearted, loving, gentle, caring and pure woman I have ever known. She was my hero, and to this day, she remains my hero. Her example made me a better me.

The reason why I'm spotlighting her today is to emphasize it's not the things, treasures, inheritance or jewelry that matter. She had very few tangible things to leave us. Oh, but what she left us exceeded anything tangible. She left a legacy that money could never buy. Her influence on me caused me to be honest, to love and care passionately, to put my faith in God during the best and worst of times, to give and to suck it up when I've been hurt or offended, to trust in God's plans for my life and to pass on something so much more than the things that can be bought.

I intend to leave my children the very best of me......and the very best of me is my precious mother's example. What are those things that you'll leave to your children and grandchildren? "Her children rise up, and call her blessed...." Proverbs 31:28

Happy Birthday, sweet Mom!

Are You a Good, Good Father?

Are You a Good, Good Father?
Happy Father’s Day to all dads today, whether you are a natural father, adoptive father or a father role model and mentor. You deserve a tribute if you have been and are a good, good father! Father’s Day brings me precious memories and so much gratitude for my own sweet daddy, my wonderful father-in-law and my precious husband who are celebrating this Father’s Day together in heaven. And especially for two amazing dads -- my two precious sons: Ryan Wuerch & Larry Wallace – men who are amazing fathers and who lead their families by God’s example to them. God bless you, Fathers!

I love the popular song “Good, Good Father”. Here’s why I think it’s so popular and resonates with so many of us. Maybe we had a very good representation of our Heavenly Father by the father we had on this earth. Or, maybe we had no representation of our Heavenly Father by any of the men in our lives. Whatever the case may be, we desire a good, good Father and we have one in our Heavenly Father.

I’m sure the inspiration for this song was because of so many in this generation who are fatherless and this song provides answers that only a good Father can provide. We are all finding our true identity in the love of our Heavenly Papa. We’re finding out that He's loving and caring and so close that we can be embraced by Him -- any time, anywhere.

As the song goes, we’re finding out He’s perfect in all of His ways…to us. He loved us before we loved Him. He has always been this way. This Father sent Jesus because He wants all of us to know that He loves us all exactly like He loves His Son. Jesus’ desire was that every person on the planet knows love by the love He shared among His followers. “By this everyone will know that you are my disciples if you love one another.” John 13:35. We are wising up to those “Love one another” words.

We’re finding out who we are in the Father’s embrace. This is what this song is about. And when we finally see Him as He really is, we find out that we’re not “dirty little sinners” to Him. We’re His new creation and old things have passed away. We are His beloved sons and daughters and the apple of His eye. We are learning to dance with Him and let Him lead. We are jumping up into His arms of peace, security, and safety. We are becoming obedient, faith-filled children and we’re making Him smile – an ear to ear smile as we bring Him pleasure when we love like He loves and gives like He gives.

Fathers – isn’t that what you desire of your children?

Here’s Chris Tomlin singing that wonderful song “Good, Good Father”! I pray that you settle the matter once and for all – let our Father embrace you, restore you and call you His beloved child. You’ll find out how GOOD, our good, good Father is to you!
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OfJrxvVnmkE

She Opens Her Mouth With Wisdom

Happy Mother’s Day! You know who you are -- you either birthed them naturally or are a spiritual and loving "mentor" mom. One of my greatest joys in life is to be a mother....to my own children AND to those God put into my life "to mother".

I left home when I married my husband at such a young age of 17, so there were sure a lot of things I still needed my mother for. Besides washing clothes and cooking tips, I remember the time I wanted to run "back home" to her because of what seemed to be the biggest "spat" EVER with my husband. I'm so glad she wouldn't let me. She reminded me that I HAD left "home", and my new home was with the man I loved and "this little spat would pass". It did. I still needed my mama's wisdom and instruction.

Then, just one year later, I gave birth to our son and I found myself in this same spot many times: the times he got sick (AND, the times I got sick), the times when, as a couple, we hit a rough patch and life seemed so out of control, the times when I needed her voice to comfort me. In God’s sovereign plan for motherhood, He gave me a mother that was my mentor, my best friend and my confidant. And, not only did He give me my mother, but He gave me the dearest mother-in-law EVER (those two women are pictured here with me on Mother's Day, 2002). The last photo is my mom and grandmother. Legacy.

God also gave me other older women in age and in faith (and continues to do so) that have come alongside and loved me “like a mother.” After all these many seasons of my life, watching and learning from my resilient, strong, and determined Mom during the time of my daddy's long illness, and then as a single mom after he graduated to heaven and to my own learning to be a Mom to my children and to other young women, I can assure you that God has special plans for women. He gave us life to give life to others. God's plans for us ensure that we are "mothered" and that we "mother". Nothing is so dear as the results of a hug or a word we share with someone who needed that hug or word. There is something unique and special about how God designed a woman’s heart to love tenderly, teach wisely, and nurture selflessly.

Is your Mom with you today? Treasure her. I heard someone talk negatively about their mother who was most certainly a less-than-perfect mom, and she asked me, "What did she ever do for me?" My reply: "She gave you life!" Not only is today a day of celebrating our moms, but perhaps we might consider being “like a mother” to a younger woman the Lord is leading us to mentor. Just maybe we are the answer to someone's prayers.

Today, I honor my Grandmom and Mom-in-heaven, my sweet Mother-in-Law, my two daughters and all the beautiful and selfless ladies that "mother" those around them with God's love that is unconditional, kind, tender-hearted, caring and loving. Happy Mother's Day! I hope you have just the most blessed day ever!

Proverbs 31:26 "She opens her mouth with wisdom, and the teaching of kindness is on her tongue."

It’s Pay-it-Forward AND Pray-it-Forward Time!

Mentor – a trusted guide, coach, role model, counselor

I don’t know where or who I would be were it not for the mentors in my life from a very EARLY age. Since I was “early” in getting married (at 17) and “early” to have a baby (one year later at 18), I needed all the help I could get. I was so in love, but I was also so insecure and inexperienced when it came to every day challenges and struggles. Quite frankly, inexperienced in life….period. And, each challenge and struggle confirmed my ongoing mental monologue “What in the world am I doing?”

I needed someone older, wiser, experienced and confident to help me navigate some of those never-ending challenges. Someone I could call and ask, "How do you do this?" or "Have you ever experienced that?" without being judged. God was so faithful to give me two strong women who paved the way for me to become a confident wife and mom. Those women were my mother and mother-in-law. How many times did I call them and ask about “this and that”? Since I was the youngest of my friends to get married, I sure couldn’t call those girls for advice. They didn't understand breastfeeding or a baby's high fever. My “moms” were living, breathing gifts from God who were sent to a gal who desperately needed real-life answers and real-life prayer. They gave me both.

Through the years, God was faithful to bring so many other wonderful and wiser Christian women who graciously mentored me. They led me by example. They shared valuable truths on how to be a dedicated wife, manage a career, the must-haves of mothering and most importantly … how to experience an authentic, personal relationship with the Lord.

It’s been my turn now for many years to pay it forward and pray it forward as I have mentored many younger women in my own circle of influence. Some women were older than me and I mentored them in their relationship with Jesus Christ. Some of those gals were searching for Mr. Happily-Ever-After. A few were transitioning from newlywed bliss to marriage-plus-career reality. And others needed sound advice on how to raise their kids while trying to stay sane. And, now, many are widows who need help navigating their life through singleness. Oh the lessons I learned in the process that I was able to share with them what NOT to do and what to do so they wouldn’t make the same mistakes I did.

In both seasons, being mentored and being a mentor, I’ve learned so much from smart, hard-working, gracious and tenderhearted women, who, just like me, still need godly advice every now and then. What would happen if we embraced each season of life looking to mentor others with the same excitement and tenacity we’d expect from a woman who mentored us?

Mentoring is for each season of life. Maybe you’ve been looking for a godly woman to come alongside you. Start with praying for your soon-to-be mentor. Even though you don’t know her yet, God does. She may be older and wiser and she knows what it is to face life's challenges. Then, be willing to mentor someone else. Your gifts and talents can be used to be a blessing to a woman who’s also longing for a mentoring relationship.

It’s Mother’s Day weekend and what better time to reflect upon those women who imparted life into you – via birthing you in the natural or the spiritual and the everyday course of life. Now…go and pay it forward and pray it forward to some young girl, teenager or woman who needs a loving, caring and devoted mentor. Thank God for their good influence on you. Regardless of your age or stage in life, mentoring is always available to you!

Hebrews 13:7 “Remember your leaders, those who have spoken God’s word to you. Think about the impact of their lives, and imitate their faith.”

1 Timothy 4:12 “Don't let anyone look down on you because you are young, but set an example for the believers in speech, in conduct, in love, in faith and in purity.”

Life is Fragile – Handle With Care AND Prayer

Yesterday, I made my way to two other “saints on earth”. I heard from friends that my precious mentor and role model, Sister Marie Pierre (will turn 90 this year), fell last week and broke her hip and had surgery. When I arrived at the rehab center, I signed the Visitors List and saw many other of my friends who had already visited her during the day. After therapy, she was in so much pain. I asked God: "Why, Lord, is this precious woman having to suffer when she has been so devoted to you AND us, for so many years?" She and I talked about the goodness and mercy of God and how He sees the little sparrows fall, how much more does He care for her. We talked about Romans 8:28 “ALL THINGS work together for good to those who love God and are called according to His purposes.” I thought, "ALL THINGS? Really, God? How can this turn for good?" My questions were answered when she and I talked. Together, we could see God’s goodness displayed in the attention she's receiving by SO MANY who have loved and cherished her for so many years. We're all praying for her and acknowledging and expressing our love and appreciation to her. She is on our hearts and minds. We are better for it. Life is fragile – handle with care AND prayer.

Another dear 94-year old friend is in a long term care facility that was only 2 miles from Sr Pierre’s rehab facility. Of course, it was perfect timing to go see her. This gracious, kind and tenderhearted Godly woman was another of my mentors and role models in faith and class. She doesn’t remember too much about our time together because of memory loss, but that doesn’t matter. I remember. I remember her always dressing to the nines, always complimenting me and encouraging me when I was the president of our women’s ministries. I talked about pot lucks and ministry projects and hilarious times and touching-lives-together-times. I smiled when nurses or aides would come into the room. Thelma would introduce me as the friend that she grew up with, who lived near each other and went to church together. There were some gaps in those memories, but no worries – her beautiful spirit is alive and well. Life is fragile -- handle with care AND prayer.

Why am I sharing these three mature, 90-something years old, beautiful and Godly women of faith with you today? Because those women prayed for me, celebrated me, encouraged me and gave me words that are still pushing me on to my finish line. I pray that when I’m in those years of fast approaching my finish line that I’ll be reminded that though life is fragile – we can handle it -- come what may -- with care and prayer for each other.

2 Timothy 4:7 "I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith."

Her Children Rise Up and Call Her Blessed

Happy Birthday to my sweet angel Mom -- she'd be 105 today. I ran past these photos of my her with her Great Granddaughter, my Alexia Wallace (14 years ago). I loved the "before" and "after" of Alexia getting hold of that bottle. LOL!

I treasure photos like this because it reminds me of where the best of me came from. If ever there was an angel on earth, it was my Mom. She was my mentor, role model and everything a mother should be. She selflessly gave -- "Just give me the fried chicken neck -- that's good enough for me." She always forgave -- "It's okay. God forgives me all the time. I sure can forgive you." She unconditionally loved -- "It's okay that they (my siblings that lived in other states) don't write or call me much. I love and pray for them anyway." Her integrity and honesty were of the utmost importance to her. At 5 years old, I'll never forget the day I saw a candy bar on the floor in the grocery store and put it in my pocket. I reasoned that "if it's on the floor, it's okay to have it". When she found it in my pocket, she took me back to the store and I had to admit my wrong-doing. That incident and lesson stuck with me like glue.

She gave me boundaries that worked -- "Let your conscience be your guide." And those words always rang in my ears when I was choosing between right or wrong. She never missed a church service -- Wednesday night, Friday prayer meeting, women's meetings, Sunday School AND church -- twice each Sunday. She sacrificed her own personal needs for my needs. She showed me undaunted faith and determination in the toughest of times when my Daddy was so sick and when our finances were so meager. I heard her praying for me and my siblings from her bedroom. She was unquestionably the most tender, kind-hearted, loving, gentle, caring and pure woman I have ever known. She was my hero, and to this day, she remains my hero. Her example made me a better me.

The reason why I'm giving this tribute to her today, is for you and me to realize -- it's not the things or treasures or inheritance or life insurance or jewelry -- the tangible things that make us. What makes us, and the legacy we leave to our children, are the things that money could never buy. Her influence on me caused me to be honest, to love and care passionately, to put my faith in God during the best and worst of times, to give and to suck it up when I've been hurt or offended, to trust in God's plans for my life and to leave my family with something so much more than the things that can be bought. I intend to leave them the very best of me......and the very best of me is my precious mother's example. What are those things that you'll leave to your children and grandchildren? "Her children rise up, and call her blessed...." Proverbs 31:28

Mothering Isn't Reserved Only For Mothers

This meal was absolutely delicious -- prepared by Alexia Wallace -- with the guidance of Denise Gerrich (aka Neicey), Payton & Alexia's au pair, mentor, "foods/cooking" teacher, and God's special angel to the Wallace Family.

What a blessing she has been to them. Denise realizes she is planting great seeds into the lives of others. And, now, especially for this special dinner -- seeing that blessing passed on to Lexi.

Yes, it takes patience to guide and direct someone who doesn't have the experience -- especially when it would be so much easier for us "to just do it ourselves".

I'm so thankful that "mothering" isn't reserved only for mothers -- but it's those who have the capacity to give, nurture and love others. And, how wonderful children have access to several adults who love them -- grandparents, child care workers, teachers, coaches, neighbors, aunts and uncles, pastors.....and nannies, au pairs and loving adults who don't see kids as just "little people" -- they see them as "a promise, a possibility -- a great big bundle of potentiality -- diamonds in the rough" -- who with a little patience, tenderness, persistence and vision -- are willing to give time to them -- planting seeds of hope, self confidence, courage and purpose into them. Those of you who are all that, and more, you are God's special angels!

Thank you, Neicey, for being one of God's special angels! The circle of life continues.....and one day, we'll see Payton & Lexi's kids being taught the golden nuggets that they learned from those who cared about the marks they will make in their future!

Role Model - Mentor - Women of Example

I have been blessed to have so many amazing female mentors in my life -- that started with my precious mother who showed me the power of profound faith -- in action. I don't remember ever hearing her complain about HAVING to work to bring in the needed income when my dad was so sick for many years, and eventually passed away. I don't ever remember her murmuring about being a widow and being lonely. I remember hearing her faith-filled prayers and singing about God's love while doing daily chores. I remember her having to go pawn her wedding band just to have the finances to make ends meet. I remember her heart of giving -- even with a small social security fixed income. She ALWAYS delighted in giving to her church and to others. She made so many sacrifices for me -- just so I could be dressed impeccably. I remember the sweet and tender heart she had for everyone. I don't remember her being fixated on how her body looked, but I do remember her caring about always dressing like queen. It was her example, as well as other wonderful Christian women who helped me gain a vision for what God desires from His daughters -- living strong, motivated, positive, determined, faith-filled, and energetic lives -- especially eager to make a difference in their world around them.

FB Girl Friends -- let's determine to carry the torch to be that light in the darkness to others, and we can not only be that role model and mentor they need, but will cause them to desire to leave their imprint on their next generation. Let's be those resilient, tenacious, can-do, strong, power-packed, all-out-hearts-for-God women that leave a legacy for others to follow.