CULTIVATING GRATITUDE - "A Day Spent with Mom"

   It doesn't happen often, but I'm so grateful Mom and I got to spend some time together yesterday. It was a beautiful sunny Sunday. I knew our time was a bit limited, and so we crammed in a lot of stopping here and there. It was fun reminiscing along the way as we'd pass old familiar places in Auburn. Of course, we found ourselves talking about Ang a lot. Our first stop, sadly, was the monument place. Mom helped me pick out the granite to be used to make Ang a memorial bench. I'm looking forward to a place to sit and remember her. We both agreed Sis would have liked what we decided on. I'll let you all know when it is finished and placed.

   Next, I wanted Mom to see the Free Little Libraries I had told her about. We visited two that were close by and enjoyed sorting through the many books. Mom even found a couple I hope she'll take time to relax and read. 

 I also remembered something else I wanted Mom to see. I know she doesn't get out very often and this was extra special. A trip up North Main Street led us straight to Jesus :)

   We pulled in the parking lot at the Trinity Lutheran Church. There is a beautiful sculpture of "The Last Supper," by Timothy Schmalz. Twelve seats around the long table with Jesus in the middle breaking the bread. Wow! It is amazing, go check it out! Mom and I seated ourselves on each side of Jesus and found ourselves talking about what Heaven will be like someday. Although it was so warm out, there was a gentle breeze that seemed to blow across the church yard and I thought I smelled the fragrance of Heaven. 

 

If you know my Mom, you know she loves plants and flowers, and so, I could not stop her from "borrowing" seeds from the many flowers we saw while we were out. She asked if I thought she might get thrown in the pokey for theft and we laughed so hard. I can see the headline in the paper now. So I guess I was an "accessory to the crime." To make it easier for her, I found a bag in my van so she could maximize her seed collecting. 

*** Flower Seed Thievery! ***

The air conditioning in the van was a relief each time we would get back in. "Just two more stops, Mom, and then I can drop you off at home." My van can be a little tricky to step up into and so I found myself wanting to ensure she got in and out okay. I'd quickly run around to the other side and help guide her up/down. I remember Mom making sure Ang and I were always safe and secure throughout our childhood. Now, I had the privilege to do the same. I clearly remember THE MOM STOP-ARM that would automatically fly up to protect Sis and I if we were riding in the front seat of the GTX or the Fury III and she had to brake abruptly. 

A short trip to the beautiful outdoor fountain at Eckhart Library gave us a relaxing break on a bench.

We watched as two squirrels played and chased each other. I admit, more flower seed thievery occurred. I held the "loot bag" as I assisted Mom back into the van to head to the famous Dairy Freeze, another Auburn Landmark. Mom and JR would have cheeseburgers, fries, and delicious shakes for dinner. I gave Mom a big hug before leaving. We never know what tomorrow will bring, but today it brought me a heart full of Gratitude for the Memory we made.

God Bless ❤