Though I’m a bit late, in the spirit of Mother’s Day, I wanted to post about the loads of grace that I’ve received from my mother. She’s taught me many things, but I’m going to pick just five to share this Friday morning:

1. A bath, a candle, and a glass of wine can go a long way. My mom is a creature of habit, and one of her habits is her nightly bath. Now that I’m a mother, I’m glad she taught me the restorative power 🙂 of a nice hot soak with a good smelling candle and a glass of red wine.

2. The art of savoring. My mother is the master at savoring good things, from a delicious meal to a new experience to the sunshine on the beach. She tips her head back and breathes it all in. She has nailed the art of everyday gratitude. 

3. The power of grace. My mother joined a church in her early teens that taught her the grace of Jesus Christ. When she talks about grace, she talks about it as if it’s something she’s still astounded by. For a born and bred Christian, hearing her talk about the wonder of grace makes me appreciate it for what it is: a beautiful, undeserved miracle of love and forgiveness.

4. The meat of life. Since I’ve had my kids, my mom is quick to remind me that I’m in the meaty part of life. She says there’s nothing sweeter than the time when your kids are all living in your nest…important to remember when I’m feeling frazzled or dissatisfied with life at home with kids.

5. The beauty of forgiveness. It’s her story to tell, but my mom had a very difficult childhood. Rather than turn her sour, her life story champions the beauty of forgiveness: her forgiveness of others and the Lord’s forgiveness in her own life.

What’s your favorite thing about your mother?