How many “moms” do you have?

I’ve talked about my incredible mom and what a blessing she is to us. There are other mothers in my life, though, that have made an impact and blessed so many, whether they know it or not. My friends’ mothers, band moms, friends who mothered my own children; they are all blessings to not only me but the many children whose lives they impacted.

Those women are all my example of motherhood. When I became a mother myself, I aspired to be each of these women, for they all had qualities that influenced me and shaped my life. From the band moms who chaperoned trips, cleaned and repaired uniforms, and kept us fed (we were a hungry bunch) to the women who allowed me to crash with friends when life at home got to be too much – and later in life, those who welcomed me and my children with open arms and hearts when the disaster of divorce struck – they have all influenced so many.

Then, of course, are mothers-in-law. Fortunately, I’ve had two, whom I admire. My first mother-in-law taught me how to cook some things that had held mystery. Pot roast, for example. Mine had always been well-done and dry. Martha taught me to make it tender and delicious. She and I had a good relationship and I was always grateful for her. My second one qualifies on two fronts, as she was also a band mom in high school! Pat is an amazing, strong, humorous lady and has raised a man who treats me with love and respect. She is a prayer warrior on a level I can only hope to achieve someday! She and her family accepted me with open minds, arms and hearts though they hadn’t seen me for a couple of decades. She is generous with her time and resources to those less fortunate and encourages us to do the same and I just love that about her.