Day 126

This weekend, the kids and I drove up to Othello to visit my parents.  My sister drove over so she and I could go to the local women's conference and hear my mom speak about her experiences the past 12 years.  For those who don't know, my mom was diagnosed with breast cancer 12 years ago, and was told that she would not survive the summer.  Twelve years later, she proved them wrong and is still going strong.  I know that for myself, even though she was technically "sick", it was difficult to picture her that way and I often had to remind myself how serious the situation really was.  Looking back, I am beyond grateful that she is still in our lives.  I don't know what I would have done without her love and support these past few years. 
Hearing my mom speak about her journey and realizing how much of a miracle it is to have her with us is not only humbling, but eye-opening as well.  She is a constant reminder to never take life for granted.  No matter how we live, or what we do, we never know what is waiting for us around the corner.  We need to always cherish every moment we have with those we love, because we really don't know when that could all end.  Tragedies happen all around us, but I'm grateful that Mom showed me how to face them with courage, strength, and determination (or stubbornness - depending on how you look at it).  Every day that we are breathing is a miracle in and of itself.  It is up to us to appreciate that miracle and make the most of it.
I love you so much, Mom.  I cherish every day you are here and I am beyond grateful that you get to see my children grow up into their own miracles.  Thank you so much for always being there.  And even if it doesn't seem like I'm listening, I take every word to heart and hope that I can be the same example of strength to my children as you have been to me.