Mother's Day: Bakersfield.com

HAPPY MOTHERS DAY TO A WONDERFUL MOTHER

Anita Chavez was and still is a beautiful and wounderful mother to her beautiful kids and adorable grandchildren. I never got a chance to meet her personally but I would like to thank her for raising a honorable well respected son, Julian Carlos Hernandez . He is my everything and he is honored to have a mother as loving as Anita Chavez . Thank you Julian for being so good to me and my two kids, hope to meet your four beautiful kids one of these days.

HAPPY MOTHER'S DAY MOMMY

To our beautiful mother Rachel Taylor

We want to wish you a happy mother's day mom first we want to say that we love you very much you mean the world to us we appreciate everything you have done for us. since you became a wonderfull mom 18 yrs ago. mom words cant explain how much you mean to the three of us. we wouldnt change it for the world your like our best friend. every moment we spend with you mens alot to us. if its going out to dinner or just laying on your bed talking about your day at work we never take life for granted because we know we have a beautiful family to live for.

we are very thankfull we were blessed to have a mother that raised us from the begaining who works all day every day just to make sure her three daughters never go without we are thankfull to have a hard working mom that gave us the world and more also special memories to pass down. mom your the best we love you your our hero.

your three daughters alyssa,amanda,ariana

My Magical Mother-in-law....

There is something magical about my mother-in-law Nancy Hogue. It's an odd way to describe someone, but for me "magic" is the word that comes to mind whenever I think of her. Like most people I was nervous when I met my husbands' parents, but within seconds of our introduction she wrapped me in a bear hug that felt like home. I didn't know it then but shortly after that introduction my family would lose our matriarch, my grandmother.

Nearly swallowed in the pain of her loss, my immediate family and I didn't really know how to cope with her death. All of us could talk to eachother, but it always ended up with one or all of us crying because we were all missing the same woman. It was around this time that I turned to Nancy. She shared stories of the special relationship she had with her own grandmother as well as talked me up from the ground on days the pain had flattened me. My own mother squeezed Nancy's hand one time and thanked her for being there for me when I wasn't capable of letting anyone else in.

One of the things I appreciate most about this woman is the way she offers advice to me. If I ever have a problem she never says "Well, this is what you need to do." Instead she gives me an anecdote about what she did in a similar situation (and there is always a similar situation) and how it worked out for her. If her method worked for a particular issue, I try it out and it almost always works for me. The times she tried something that didn't work she will say "Here is what I wished I had done." Essentially with every conversation I learn from her mistakes and successes. Of course, like my own mom she is there whether I screw things up or not, loving me just the same.

I admire her more than she will ever know and only hope that one day my future children and spouses feel the same way about me.

Nancy Hogue lives in Tehachapi with her husband Bob.They raised three awesome kids who are all happily married.The Hogues also have three grandchildren who they spoil rotten.

My Mother the Superhero!

My mother is my superhero! She raised me in a way that has taught me to be self-sufficient. I learned right from wrong from her. She taught me to take the higher road and good things will come my way. She has taught me manners, even when I don't choose to use them. She is an amazing lady who has inspired me to be the best that I can be. I wish everyone had an opportunity to have a mother such as her. I am blessed and excited to have her help me with my child because I know that my baby will grow up with the same values that will enable her to be successful and happy in life. Thank you mom for everything you do, but most of all, thank you for being you.

Motherhood: A higher calling

We wipe noses with our own shirts, we kiss ouchies over and over again, we do laundry while making dinner, and then we do it over again. Then the world tells us: “your job is monotonous,” “motherhood is not fulfilling,” “you should be making money,” and “being a mom is not respectable.” Why are we, mothers, willing to put up with all this? What value is there in the daily grind? Perhaps it’s a little different for each person, but I think each mom understands what a privilege it is to watch a young man or woman grow. We have experienced the overwhelming joy of the firsts: first smile, first crawl, first steps, first words, and first hugs. We have molded a child’s character with careful and thoughtful discipline. We can see past the snotty noses and stinky diapers, because we place tremendous value on each of our children. God placed these children in our care, and then filled our hearts with a powerful love for each of them. Ultimately, we do what we do because we love them.

Even though we love our children, it is still a challenge to fill the many needs our children have. They are hungry and thirsty; their clothes always seem to be dirty; they are tired or need exercise; it is always something. John 13:34 says, “A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another” (NIV). And we do love our children, but our love must translate into action. Motherhood isn’t an emotion or state of mind. It is a job, a job that requires us to serve. And serving for a job takes some getting used to! It is difficult to go from school where we earn gold stars on our chart for our achievements, or from working and earning a nice paycheck, to performing a job where most of our tasks go unnoticed. Making the jump was a difficult transition for me as it is for most women who decide to stay at home. (Yet-to-be mothers, consider yourselves forewarned!) But even Jesus, being Himself a King, served humbly. Matthew 20:28 says, “Just as the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.” As mothers, we have the opportunity to show God’s sacrificial love to our children everyday through our self-less service. And when we do, we honor God and we tap a source of joy that will never run dry. For Proverbs 29:17 says, “discipline your son and he will give you peace; he will bring delight to your soul.”

As a mother, I often reflect on how my love for my children mirrors God's love for the world. My children receive the benefits of my sacrifices for them. They cannot repay me for nurturing them, and I do not require them to do so. It is a joy to tend to them and love them and train them up for the Lord. A deep and profound love for my children motivates me to seek their best interest whether or not it is fun and enjoyable for me. And that is how God relates to us, too. God sacrificed that which was most dear to Him- his only Son- because He loved us so much. John 3:16 says, “for God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.” As a child of God, I could never repay Him for what He has done for me. And He does not require me to repay him. I can only humbly and gladly accept his precious gift of salvation. 1 John 3:1 says, “How great is the love the Father has lavished on us, that we should be called children of God! And that is what we are!” I will leave you with these words that were written by Mr. J.R. Miller in 1882 about the high calling of a mother:

"Oh that God would give every mother a vision of the glory and splendor of the work that is given to her when a babe is placed in her bosom to be nursed and trained! Could she have but one glimpse into the future of that life as it reaches on into eternity; could she be made to understand her own personal responsibility for the training of this child, for the development of its life, and for its destiny,- she would see that in all God's world there is no other work so noble and so worthy of her best powers, and she would commit to no other hands the sacred and holy trust given to her" (Homemaking 106).

Young Artist in Mother's Day Concert

Bryn Rosander, Kern County's 2008 Young Artist Competition Winner, will be the concert soloist with the Tehachapi Community Orchestra on Mother's Day, May 11 at Country Oaks Baptist Church in Tehachapi. Miss Rosander will play the first movement of Mozart's Violin Concerto No.3 in G Major. The orchestra will also present works by German composers, Mendelssohn and Beethoven.

The program will begin with the Overture to "A Midsummer Night's Dream " written by Felix Mendelssohn when he was just seventeen years old, under the spell of Shakespeare's work. The beautiful themes in this overture represent various characters in the play. Concluding the afternoon's performance, the orchestra will present Beethoven's immortal Symphony No.4.

The Tehachapi Community Orchestra offers five concerts each year and every performance is free. The orchestra depends almost exclusively on the generous donations of the audience for its ongoing support.

The orchestra's annual raffle will be held at the May 11 concert with a $1,000 first prize. Raffle tickets are available at the Apple Shed, Mountain Music and from orchestra and Symphonic Chorus members.

Make this Mother's Day, May 11, special.... give her the gift of music. Enjoy an afternoon of the world's finest music with mother and the entire family, performed by the Tehachapi Community Orchestra.

Dorothy Hosey

My mom loved me through word and action. Some people who knew me called me a momma’s boy, but I didn’t care what they said. I loved my momma, and she was my best friend.
On Nov. 22, 2001, my mother died, but the most special moment of that day was when my mom smiled at me and said, “Son, I love you!” And I thought, everything was fine. Those were the last words I heard my momma speak.
It’s Mother’s Day today and those of you whose mom is still here, give her a hug, kiss and tell her you love her.
— Clarence Hosey

Dolores J. Rutledge

My mother raised nine children. Mom loved to work in her yard and I think she enjoyed making the neighbors think we were mean!
Mom mowed the lawn with a push mower. Mom didn’t think we could do it right. So we would sit around and watch her work. She would laugh at us when people would sound off about her working so hard and we weren’t doing anything to help.
Mom would take walks in the foothills and come back packing rocks. We have rocks everywhere. If we walked with her, she would spot the rocks and we would carry them for her. If the rocks were too big, she would call one of the family to go after them in a truck.
I had the honor and privilege of taking care of Mom until her passing.
— Patricia Bond

Minnie Ussery

My mom has been gone for a long time, but there’s a couple of her sayings that I’ll always remember. One of them was about the company that I kept. It was “Birds of a feather flock together.”
The other saying she taught me was, “If you can’t say something nice about someone, say nothing.”
All these years I’ve tried to live by these things she taught me.
— Odessa Powers

Diane Sanchez

Since we can remember, our mom has always gotten us Easter baskets. But now mom’s babies are all grown up, some of us are married and some have kids of their own, but every year we still get our baskets. The time it takes for her to get what is now a 12-person family baskets is so time-consuming and not easy. But each basket is personal and specific to each of her kids.
Our mom knows our likes, dislikes and loves to see the smile on our face when we open them. We are blessed to have a mom who takes the time to know her kids and we appriciate everything she has sacrificed and done for us.
— Lisa, Frankie, Sarah, Sandy “NannyGoat,” Albert “Phil”

Bonnie Hammack

I have severe lupus and every day is a struggle for me. My mom has been here for me every day. She would give her last breath. My mom has been a single parent to me and my brother and sister since I was 18 and I’m 44 now. We lost our brother in 1992. He was an undercover narcotics investigator for L.A. County. She had just had major back surgery when we found out. But she didn’t let that keep her down. She was up and ready to take on everything that needed to be done for my borther and me and my sisters. I thank God every day that I get up just to see my mom and my family.
— Lori Gould

Rose L. Toone

One of my most memorable times with my mother was the World War II period.
My mother had four sons in the United States military services. One was sent to Japan; one was sent to France; one was sent to the Philippines; and one served his tour of duty in the United States.
Mother wrote each son every night before retiring for bed. She often sent goodies in her packages.
Mother’s strength and dignity and faith in God had brought her through it all.
In 1982, Mother went to her heavenly reward, and her children called her blessed.
God bless America.
— Opal M. Brown

My Mom

My mom

As a child I didn't always understand why Mom made the descions she did. Now that I'm grown up with my own family I have learned a lot about my mom. I learned how to perservere in marriage and my life, no matter how things seem at the time. I've learned thru her mistakes how to avoid making them myself. I've learned she has done the best she knew how for her children and she has such a deep love for each one of us. I've learned that God, Love and Caring for others is how life should be lived. I have many wonderful memories of my mom and I. The most wonderful thing about my mom is she has always been there for me when I've needed some one to talk to. Her advice has helped me throughout the years. What I love most about my mom is when she smiles. I want to say, with all my heart, "Thank You Mom for all the hardwork and sacrifices you've made. I truly appreciate it all." I Love You Mom.

Laurie Saunders

How blessed am I to have been born to such a wonderful mother. Everything I am, I owe to her. Her strength and wisdom guides me, her zest for life inspires me, her kindness and grace warms me. I have never met another person like her, and know in my heart that I never will — she’s one of a kind. I can only wish to have the light that she gives, for she touches all around her with a kindred grace. I’m proud to be her daughter and could not have asked for more in a mother. Thank you for everything Mom. I love you and Dad.

Teresa Palacios

To our beautiful amazing mom, Teresa, we just want to thank you for always being there for us.
Ceci: I love you for being my friend and allowing me to open up to you.
Blazz: I love you for passing your amazing art skills to me.
Brea: I love you for enrolling me in soccer yet still buying me my girly-girl needs.
Daniel: I love you for buying me my little motorcycles I want.
We love you for waking up early, even on weekends, to make us an awesome breakfast. We love you for being independent, keeping us strong and together. And as we grow and become expensive, we love you for still putting our needs and wants first.

Elisa Sevilla Elento

“You can never repay me for giving birth to you until you have children of your own.” I remember my Mama utter these words when I was young. I had told her I did not want to have children and suffer all the hardships our family was going through at the time.
I grew up in the Philippines where poverty is the way of life. My father, Magno Elento, had to leave us to work in Saudi Arabia in order to support a family of seven children. My mother, Elisa Elento, was left behind to care for us and work at the same time to supplement my father's income. My parents sacrificed being away from each other for 26 years to give us the better life we have today. I remember my mother cried many tears throughout those years.
Now that I have children of my own, I always go to my mom for motherly advice because she has a wealth of wisdom and experience. I may be better off financially, thanks to my parents' sacrifices, but I still face the same challenges my mother had raising us. I realize some truth to those words. Another truth is I can never repay my mother for everything that she has done for me. But she never wanted me to pay her back. All she wanted was to give me what I needed unconditionally - a Mother's love!
Happy Mother's Day Mama! I love you from the bottom of my heart!
Dedicated to Elisa Sevilla Elento of Bakersfield, California
Written by Alice Elento Pigg of Charlotte, North Carolina

Tania Sue Galloway

The best advice/shared moment that my mother ever gave me was to always depend on myself. She was the most honest mom a young teenager could ask for. She was always so real. I love and miss her very much! RIP, Mom, you are my angel.
— Brandi Phillips

Evelyn Arias

Unconditional love, you promised forever. Blessed with Evelyn Arias for a mom is a treasure. You make being a mom look fun to do. Maybe our babies will see the best in us, like we did in you. Always keeping us by your side. Instilling in us to forgive and follow God as our guide.
Trips to our cousins or vacations to the beach. Watching us close not far from yhour reach. Being sure God comes first, read his word and pray. Teaching us by example, Christ is the only way. Tasting the love you put in the food you cook. Ingredients from your soul could fill a book. Juggling our doctor appointments, school and sports without a fuss. Developed patience for the seven of us. Hard work built our home, your love made it home. Our yard big enough for us and many animals to roam.
Providing us the greatest childhood, by living out in the country. Gave us memories of climbing trees, swim creeks and run free. Your traditions to make our favorite B-day dishes. No candles to blow out, cause a mom like you grants all our wishes. Never judged us when you’ve learned a disappointing story. Reminding us we all fall short of God’s glory. We’ll continue to carry on on your legacy and make some of our own. Now as parents we pray our kids tell the same ’bout us when they’re grown.
Love, Suz, Jac, Lou, Vetta Mark, Chuck and Melis

Betty Wilson Fahey

She has always been there for me. When I was about 6 years old, we were at a place where there were a lot of people. My mom thought she had ahold of my hand, but she had ahold of my sister Sheri’s hand. When she realized she had Sheri’s hand, who is a year older, she began calling and asking everyone to help search for me, knowing I was lost and fearing the worst.
They eventually found me back at the car, which I had managed to find on my own, from where we started. My mom cried tears of joy and relief.
To this day my mom holds my hand when we walk side by side, and has always been there for me.

Cathy Adams

It's hard to pinpoint "the most special moment with mom" when we're talking about a span of time of more than 35 years. Perhaps that "special moment" was before I can really remember. What I can say is that my mom has been through a lot with me over the years. I was terrible as a teenager, but who isn't? She's stuck by me when I'd gotten myself in trouble again and again; been there for me when I was in and out of jails, prisons, and rehabs. She was there to step in and take care of my own daughter when I couldn't.
She's helped me get to where I am at today in my life. She put in a good word for me where she works when I was fresh out of prison again. How she had that kind of trust for me, I may never know. But I do know that she loves me and knew what I "could" do with my life.
I've been here working for a company that grows more everyday, nearly 9 years now, with my mom. This act, alone, put me on the right path and I'll always be indebted to her for that.
She's been by my side when I purchased my own house and my first "new" car. These are just a few of the "special moments" I've had with my mom.
— Shana Adams

OUR MOM IS OUR BIGGEST SUPPORTER!

To Hazel Johnson - You have always been there to support us...now it is our turn! We love you very much! Thank you for everything you have done for us. We know we could not have done it without you!

Love,

the Johnson family, Witcher family , David family and Newell family.

Happy Mother's Day Mom!

Peggy Clark

Mom, we just want you to know how much we all love you. You created a lot of great memories for us, from dressing us as werewolbes for Halloween to throwing the best birthday parties on the block. You kept things together when it got hard. We couldn’t ask for a better g-ma for the kids.
Your very grateful boys Stevie and Dennis, grand-children Aybrielle, Jakob, Kalebm Connor, Kody, Landin, Kyler and the one still brewing due in August, your birth month.
Love, The Clark Family

Rosie Ontiveros

Mom, you had been my rock, my guide and my best friend. You had carried me and protected me through so many trials and you were always there for me. You always encouraged me and for that I “Thank you” and thank you for your love and for the close relationship that we shared. It had been my pleasure and an honor to be there for you and to give back the love and care that you had given me. I know that one day I will see you again and be able to give you a big kiss and a big hug and never have to let go of you. Thinking of you on Mother’s Day, Mom. I love you and miss you very much.
Love always, Bobby Ontiveros

Janice Day

I remember when I was a little girl that Mother's Day always held lots of arts and crafts. From cutting out paper hearts to pressing my little hand into clay and bringing it home to Mom. When I was growing up she taught me how to keep my house clean, vacuum, dust, and separate laundry. She taught me how to cook and to make one mean chocolate chip cookie.
Recently I have become a mother myself. I did not know a love could be so strong that my heart would beat within another. My mom has taught me the most valuable lessons of life, and I hope I can do the job as well as my mother did. Thank you, Mom, for letting me cry on your shoulder, letting me sleep while you watched my daughter, for laughing with me and always helping me.
— Audrey Jarvis

Judy Lynch

The best shared moment that I have encountered with my grandma Judy is that she has always told me that family is very improtant, and that we always need to forgive. I love my grandmother very much. She is “The Rock” of our family. She has kept our family together through her hard work, devotion, and unconditional love for her family. We love you very much, Hodetta “Judy” Lynch!
— Love always,
Heather Galloway and the rest of us.

Clola Berry

In 1941, we had just moved to California from Arkansas. We lived in a tent at what was later called DiGiorgio Farms near Arvin.
One of the fondest memories was when I was in the fourth grade. I thought my teacher had treated me unfairly and I went home and told my mom. She was so angry that the next day, this 5-foot-2, 100-pound woman with a third-grade education went to my school and confronted this teacher. She told her that even though our family was poor, her daughter was just as good as any other kid in the class and if she was ever mean to me again, she would come back and pull out her long, stringy hair. Maybe it helped because I don’t recall that teacher ever being mean to me again.
— Sue Berry McGee

Mazie June Sephus

In 1959, at age 5, I was across the street playing with the neighbor kids. Suddenly, I fell to the ground. I tried to get up but could not. My legs would not work. It was like being paralyzed. The other kids thought I was joking, so they were laughing at me.
Panicked, I started hollering for my mom. She came outside and ran to me. She knew something was bad wrong. It had been two or three years since she carried me because now I was a big boy. But she picked me up off the ground, carried me across the street and into the house.
I was amazed and embarrassed that my mom could and did carry me. She carried me to the car and into the hospital. The cause was rheumatic fever. Fifty years ago, I learned that day that no matter what was going on in my life, my mother, Mazie, will be here for me.
— David L. Sephus

Happy Mother's Day

Thank you for a fun day at the beach! Happy Mother’s Day, Mom! We love you very much.
— Madyson & Ryan

Mary Louise Pearl

My mother, Mary Louise Pearl Price, was born in Detroit, Mich. in 1898 and passed away in Bakersfield in 1974. My parents’ mother and father were deceased when they married, so we never had grandparents. There were my two older sisters, my twin sister and myself. Mom devoted her whole life to us girls — and her grandchildren.
I have so many wonderful childhood memories. Mom’s many friends and our German godparents. The excitement of the first snow. The snowball fights she joined in with us, the water fights we had in the summer when we would drown her. The happy trips to our aunt’s house at Jackson, Mich. the many picnics we went on. The many times she took us to the circus. To the many parades. In 1942, my father moved our family to Bakersfield. I can remember her crying most of the trip. Then, two years later, they divorced. For a number of years, my mom would drive all alone to Detroit and pick up hitchhikers on the way, no matter who. Mostly servicemen. She could change a tire, battery and spark plugs. She had worked for Ford Motor Co. in Detroit for five years and she won many honors for her work. She taught us girls and our children how to drive. She always said God was her co-pilot.
My father lived in Los Angeles for years but when he found he had terminal cancer, he came back to Bakersfield and was in the hospital for months. My mom sat by his bedside every day for hours and handled his funeral.
My mother is in heaven now with my older two sisters, my twin sister and my daughter, Susan.
All I am or hope to be I owe to my mother.
— Barbara Gallup

A Mother's Final Lesson

My mother Carmel Agnes Bertolucci made her transition to the next life on April 6, 2008. With that, she completed her final lesson to her children.

When we discovered our mom had pancreatic cancer, our family initially measured the remaining time with her in weeks, not months. My sister, who lives less than a mile away from my parents, had been intimately involved in the meetings with doctors leading up to her diagnosis, and was the one to break the news to us. Fearing our mother would leave this world before we had a chance to say goodbye, my three brothers and I made quick trips to San Diego, where she and my father had happily retired about 13 years ago. After spending her entire life in Bakersfield where she helped my father operate neighborhood grocery stores, raised five children, and was involved in community organizations, the quiet and simple lifestyle of San Diego provided a peaceful and relaxed existence.

She did not suffer a quick demise, but instead her condition improved a little. During this time, she never allowed us to see her act like a terminal cancer patient. Our visits always caused someone to say “if you didn’t know she was sick, you couldn’t tell at all.” It was only later that my father described how she would rally her strength before a visit, maintain a cheerful and optimistic attitude, and collapse in exhaustion afterward.

When her remaining time stretched beyond the doctor’s initial 12 week prediction, we began to harbor fantasies of a miraculous recovery. However, something would always happen to bring us back to earth. There would be sudden, unexplained swelling in her body, sending her to the hospital for a two-day stay. There was also the issue of her constant and relentless pain, which was only managed by the judicious use of morphine. She would gently remind us of her terminal diagnosis, and make the statement, “right now, every day is a blessing.” Only my mother could make this statement sound like a deep insight and not a cliché.

She also displayed a sense of gallows humor. When the news of her diagnosis reached her many friends, she received an outpouring of support. I was visiting her when she received one such letter, full of praise for her life and expressions of love and appreciation. After she finished reading it to me she deadpanned “I guess you have to die to find out how much people love you.”

As her remaining time stretched on, I began to realize what was happening. My mother was teaching her children their final lesson. The early lessons of teaching us to walk, talk, and feed ourselves, gave way to teaching us to pray, do our schoolwork, and choose our friends wisely. As we grew into adults, the lessons centered around the challenges of raising children and maintaining a long term marriage, which she and my father had done for nearly 60 years. Now she would teach us to die without complaint, showing uncommon grace, dignity and peace of mind grounded in her unshakeable spiritual faith.

Her extended exit allowed me to tell on more than one occasion how proud I was of her. Her acceptance and lack of fear would make her passing less frightening for her children and extended family. My four year old daughter illustrated this best of all. When she was returning home on what would be final time she would see her grandmother alive, she pulled Grandma aside and whispered to her confidentially “I’ll see you in heaven.”

The greatest example of her strength and courage occurred in her final week. Despite multiple organ failure and intense pain, she held on until my two brothers could make their final visit. When she continued to hold on the next day, my younger brother and I made a quick trip to San Diego where she stayed lucid until we could again say our final goodbyes. Then, in a final act of compassion to her children, she refused to pass way until all of us had left the hospital, preferring to die under the watchful eye of her treasured daughter and husband of 58 years.

At her funeral, the parish priest delivered a glowing eulogy, and marveled at her courage and the example she left for her children. He told me afterwards that she was completely in control of how she would leave this life, and added with misty eyes, “She told me she would keep an eye out for me.”

Thanks, mom, for your message taught not in words, but in a life well lived. Lesson learned.

IN MEMORY OF JOAN HOLDING

WHISPERS IN THE WIND

WRITTEN BY VICKIE BELMORE

I KNOW YOUR HEART FEELS EMPTY.

IN THIS MOMENT YOU FEEL

LIKE YOU'LL NEVER SEE YOUR MOM AGAIN.

TODAY... I THINK I HEARD HER

WHISPER IN THE WIND.

SHE SAID,

IF YOU LONG TO SEE HER

HERE IN THIS PLACE...

YOU CAN SEE HER EVERY DAY

IN EACH GRANDCHILDS FACE.

YOU CAN FEEL HER GENTLE HUG

IN EACH ONE'S EMBRACE.

THEY CARRY WITHIN THEM

GENETIC DROPLETS OF HER BLOOD.

THEY HAVE ALSO INHERITED

A LIFETIME OF HER LOVE.

WHEN YOU ARE OVERWHELMED WITH SADNESS,

AND ALL YOU CAN DO IS CRY...

YOUR MOM IS THERE IN SPIRIT

STANDING RIGHT BY YOUR SIDE.

SHE'S LONGING TO WIPE

THE TEARS FROM YOUR EYES.

SHE SAID,

LISTEN VERY CAREFULLY

FOR HER WHISPER IN THE WIND.

SHE WISHES SHE COULD SEE YOU

JUST SMILE AGAIN.

REJOICE IN THE JOY

THAT HER MEMORY BRINGS.

REMEMBER THAT THIS LIFE

IS A TEMPORARY THING.

SHE WILL SEE YOU IN HEAVEN

WHEN YOUR LIFE IS DONE.

SHE IS SO VERY PROUD

OF THE WOMAN YOU'VE BECOME.

SHE HAS PERSONALLY THANKED GOD

THAT YOU ARE HER CHILD.

NOW SHE ONLY ASKS...

THAT YOU LOOK UP TOWARD HEAVEN

AND SEND HER A SMILE.

SHE SAID,

STAY STRONG IN YOUR FAITH.

BELIEVE THAT SOMEDAY

YOU WILL SEE HER AGAIN.

AND...LISTEN VERY CAREFULLY

FOR WHISPERS IN THE WIND.

HAPPY MOTHERS DAY

"HEIRLOOMS" IS A SPECIAL SONG I WROTE FOR MY MOTHER. TO HEAR THE SONG PERFORMED, GO TO WWW.MYSPACE.COM UNDER VICKIE BELMORE.

HEIRLOOMS

WRITTEN BY VICKIE BELMORE

EVERY YEAR WE SEE THEM,

ALL THE BRIDES OF JUNE ...

ADORNED IN GOWNS OF LACE AND WHITE,

WEARING THEIR OLD HEIRLOOMS.

A PICTURE PERFECT VISION,

FOR EVERY LITTLE GIRL.

AS SHE DREAMS OF THE DAY,

SHE INHERITS GRANDMA'S PEARLS.

AN HEIRLOOM IS A TREASURE,

A VERY PRECIOUS GIFT.

THE HEIRLOOMS THAT MY MOTHER GAVE,

I NEVER WILL FORGET...

SHE TAUGHT ME BY EXAMPLE

TO BE A FAITHFUL WIFE.

TO ALWAYS PRACTICE KINDNESS,

AND TO LEAD AN HONEST LIFE.

THESE ARE NOT THINGS

THAT I CAN HOLD OR SEE.

THEY ARE FAR MORE VALUABLE

THAN JEWELS WILL EVER BE.

THESE ARE THE HEIRLOOMS

THAT MY MOTHER GAVE TO ME.

HANDED DOWN FOR GENERATIONS

IN MY FAMILY.

CLIPPED RIGHT FROM THE BRANCHES

OF MY FAMILY TREE.

THESE ARE THE HEIRLOOMS

THAT MY MOTHER GAVE TO ME.

SOMEDAY THE TIME WILL COME,

AND IT WILL BE MY TURN...

TO BE THE MOTHER OF THE BRIDE,

AND PASS DOWN WHAT I'VE LEARNED.

I'VE TAUGHT HER BY EXAMPLE

TO BE A FAITHFUL WIFE.

TO ALWAYS PRACTICE KINDNESS,

AND TO LEAD AN HONEST LIFE.

THESE ARE NOT THINGS,

THAT SHE CAN HOLD OR SEE.

THEY ARE FAR MORE VALUABLE

THAN JEWELS WILL EVER BE.

THESE ARE THE HEIRLOOMS

THAT MY MOTHER GAVE TO ME.

LOVE CAN LAST FOREVER...

LOOK AT HER FAMILY TREE.

My Momma

Mom,

You always say good mothers are hard to find. Its a good thing I don't have to look too far considering you live with me. No words can express all that you've done for me and dad. We don't tell you enough but I hope you know we appreciate every bit and we love you tons!!

Baby and Dad

THE BEST MOM EVER

“Our mother is the truest friend we have, when trials heavy and sudden, fall upon us; when adversity takes the place of prosperity; when friends who rejoice with us in our sunshine desert us; when trouble thickens around us, still will she cling to us, and endeavor by her kind precepts and counsels to dissipate the clouds of darkness, and cause peace to return to our hearts.”

WE LOVE YOU MOM!

Most Humble and Thoughtful Woman on Earth

Mom, Linda Richey, you are truly the most thoughtful and kind person I know. You have taught all of us how to think of others first, no matter the situation or problem. Even today, we are reminded to pick up our trash in the theater, take a lonely friend to lunch, or to use kinder words when speaking. Everyone who meets you can see how the love of God shines through you and they all can't think of a sweeter person. You are humble. So I know you won't believe this, but you are the most wonderful mom and person and we love you!

I Remember "Mama".........

Mother, Mama, Mom, Mumsy, Ahm, Ama, Makuahine, Matka, Muter, Okaasan, Nana, Maman, Mae, whatever language you speak, she is "Mother." She is unconditional love, support, and strength. "Mama" as I called her, gave me all of the above and more. After my "Mama" passed away, I sat down and gathered my warm thoughts of her, and realized what a strong woman she really was. "Mama" was beautiful, loving and kind. Every night before she went to bed, she would hold a small picture to her bosom, smiling at times, and there would also be tears. This was a picture filled with love. The deep love a mother and daughter hold for each other. The same love for my "Mama", that I will cherish forever, and never forget............................

My mother, my hero...

Cecilia Martinez... also known as my mama, is my hero. If i had to name a time when my mama was the most supportive is when i was about five or six. It all happened one night when my father walked out on us. He made a huge scene and just slammed the door in our face...I was so confused! That's when my mom sat there with me and comforted me. She told me when the circus comes into town, she would take me. To this day she has taken me to the circus three times. She kept her promise and i respect her for that. My hero is a single mom who works full time and attends school as a full time student. My hero inspires me to better myself. She is always reminding me how important my education is. My mom is always so supportive about everything i do. My mom even has a sense of humor (even if she is the only one that laughs at her own jokes). My mom is such a strong woman. She has taught me to be strong and independent and that "i dont need no man" to provide for me. Cecilia is my hero, my inspiration and my mom.

WHAT IS THE ORIGIN OF MOTHER’S DAY?

In 1872 in the United States, Julia Ward Howe (who also wrote the
words to the Battle Hymn of the Republic) suggested a special day
set aside for Mothers.

In 1907, Ana Jarvis from Pennsylvania began a campaign to establish
a national Mother’s Day. She persuaded her mother’s church in
Grafton, West Virginia, to celebrate Mother’s Day on the second
anniversary of her mother’s death, the second Sunday of May.

By the next year Mother’s Day was also celebrated in Philadelphia.
Ms. Jarvis and her supporters began to write to ministers,
businessmen and politicians in their quest to establish a national
Mother’s Day. It was successful as by 1911 Mother’s Day was
celebrated in almost every state.

President Woodrow Wilson, in 1914, made the official announcement
proclaiming Mother’s Day as a national holiday that was to be held
each year on the 2nd Sunday of May.
Actually, long before Ms. Jarvis suggested the idea for a Mother’s
Day celebration it was already in existence.'

The earliest Mother’s Day celebrations can be traced back to the
spring celebration of ancient Greece in honor of Rhea, the mother of
the gods. As ‘Christianity’ spread throughout Europe the celebration
changed to honor the “Mother Church” – the spiritual power that gave
them life and protected them from harm. Over time the church
festival blended with Mothering Sunday celebration. People began
honoring their mothers as well as the church'.

Three points of interest are:

1. Only one day a year is set aside to honor mothers.
2. It wasn’t celebrated by Jesus and his followers.
3. It was originally in honor of a false goddess, Rhea.

Everyday our mothers should be shown honor and this applies to
fathers as well. It would be a dishonor to disrespect them all year
and then think that giving a card or gift once a year will make up
for it with them - or with God.
And remember, mother’s day truly begins the day you are born from
her womb until the day she is no longer with you.'

*REMEMBER HER NOW

If there are things you want to say
speak now, my friends, while it’s still day,
Remember her now.

If there are hurts you want to mend
then do it now while time’s your friend,
Remember her now.

Don’t let it be that once a year
you send a card to show you care,
Remember her now.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Main information source from Mother’s Day on the NET – the Story
www.holidays.net/mother/story.htm
*Poem by Sandy Joseph

Isabel Garcia

Happy Mother’s Day to our mother, Isabel Garcia. Mom, not a day goes by that we don’t think of you and miss you. This our first Mother’s Day without your beautiful face and presence with us. You joined God’s band of angels Feb. 17. We know your smile has lit up the heavens as you did here on earth.
Love, Esther, Rachel, Norma, Frankie, Timmy, Trisha, and Dad, too

Marilyn Curran

As I reflect about the people who have contributed to who I am, there is someone who “knew me when” and has loved me throughout my life. My mother, Marilyn Curran, is that person.
Long before I graduated from college, she and Dad were so aware of my dreams, my desire to teach. From hanging a small chalkboard and bulletin board in my bedroom so I could “play school,” to encouraging higher education until the point of graduation and beyond ... she has inspired, laughed, cried, and basically said, “You can do it Lor!” I remember calling home afer I had been hired for my first teaching position. Mom and I were in tears, as I thanked both she and Dad for always helping me be the person I knew God meant for me to be. that call took place 24 years ago!
Since then, she has cheered me on in my marriage to my husband, Tim, as we raise our three amazing daughters, in teaching classes each year, as well as encouraging my brother Jim and his family. She is a prayerful cheerleader to each of her five grandchildren. Mom makes every event memorable!
Only six years ago I became humbled by her love and care for Dad as he passed away after a short illness. With her head held high, her faith strong, Mom has taught our family what commitment and dignity are all about. I am so very blessed and thankful to have her in my life.
— Submitted by: Lori (Curran) Hardy

Angelina Rodriguez

I’m writing to you about my mother, Angelina Rodriguez, who is no longer with us. My mother was my best friend, always with me. I took her to the birth of her great-granddaughter Athena when she was born. She stayed through the whole birth with me, took her to Las Vegas when her grandson Herman got married. She enjoyed every minute of it. She would get so excited when Santa would come to her house (aka Abel Acosta). Mom would go with me to the park (for functions for) the company I work for. She enjoyed meeting new people. Mom loved to shop till you drop, spend and spend on everyone that she loved. Mom loved to joke and kid around with everyone. A kid at heart, she was. This wonderful picture of me, Angie Acosta, my grandson Andrew Reyes at 4 months and my wonderful mother, Angelina. This was taken at Jastro Park September 11, 2001, when Andrew got baptized. Today, May 11, 2008, Andrew will be Big 7. Happy birthday to you, love Grandma Angie.
Happy Mother’s Day, Mom and miss you very much. Always in my heart. Fly with the angels because you truly are an angel in my heart. Thinking of you always. Love your daughter, Angie.

Nellie George

“Mother”
composed by Ilene Smith for her mother, Nellie George, a well-known waitress at several Bakersfield restaurants many years ago.

Mother has a special place
In each and every heart
Her love and understanding
Are like a hidden art

She ever guards her children
Keeps them cradled in her arms
Trusting, prayers and God’s protection
Will never bring them harm.

In childhood, she is always there
to wipe away the tears
And then, with her special touch
She seems to calm our fears.

She has the art of wisdom
In teaching us the way
In all the things God’s promised
If we take heed, and never stray

She has that special patience
With our failures and mistakes
She’s always there to comfort
And help decide which road to take.

Yes, life has its heartaches
She tries not to let them show
What she covers with her smile
Only her and God will know.

As we travel down life’s pathway
The years go swiftly by
Our memories of “Mother”
Are like rainbows in the sky.

Some still have their mothers
God has chose to take some home
To rejoice with all the angels
Gathered that around his throne.

Maricela Franco

THAT SPECIAL MOMENT IS EVERYDAY OF MY LIFE THAT I CAN SPEND WITH MY BEAUTIFUL MOM TO HOLD HER AND TELL HER THAT I LOVE HER EVERYDAY. SHE MAKES ME LAUGH AND SMILE. THANKS MOM FOR BRINGING ME IN THIS WORLD SO THAT I CAN BE THE BEST THAT I CAN. FOR MY DAUGHTER THAT'S IN MY LIFE NOW.
LOVE YOU ALWAYS,
GINA MESA

Sherry Biddles

My mom (Sherry Biddles): I love you so much. You’re the best mother in the world and I’m so glad that you are mine. Mom, I’m so happy that we can talk about anything and that you are always there for me. Your daughter (Kayla Shelton).

Happy Mother's Day, my special friend

Moms are wonderful, but so are many mothers-in-law. I met my first mother-in law 44 years ago.
She was young — my mom wasn’t.
She water-skied — my mom played bridge.
She was a clean cook — my mom used every pan.
She okayed milk in a carton on the table — my mom demanded milk was in a glass pitcher.
How could two women so different be such a mainstay in my life? The answer is easy — they both loved me unconditionally.
Whether I was right or wrong, both stood by me for my entire adult life. And to this, I say thank you. First to my mom, Jean Helma, in heaven and secondly to Bernice Blackburn. She is over 80 and traveling life’s highway driving her own motor home. Happy Mother’s Day, my special friend.

Margarita Sanchez Ruiz

One of my most special moments with mom was when all her kids pitched in to buy her a nice used car. We were all there and surprised her with it. She was so happy, we almost caught mom shed a tear that day. She loved that car, wouldn't even smoke a cigarette in it. Mom’s now gone, but missed every single day. Love you mom!
In the picture: Mario Zaragoza with mom, Margarita Sanchez Ruiz.

Marie Owens

My mom, Marie Owens, goes beyond the word “mom.” She is my rock. When I was a little girl, she was there for every illness, sadness, little ache. As I grew older, she has always been there to ease my pain. She actually told me once, “I wish there was some way that I could take that pain from you and feel it for you.” She is the best person in the whole world, without a doubt. She will always be with me, in my heart, in my mind. She is my everything. People laugh at me for being on the phone to her every morning, but one day she won’t be there for me to call and then I’ll pick up the phone and who will be there? That’s a pain she won’t be able to take away. But she knows I will love her for eternity and I know that she feels the same. She also told me once to always remember that I have been the best daughter that a mom could have. If that’s true, it’s because she made it easy for me, by setting the greatest example as a daughter, a mother, a grandmother! I love you mom!
— From Sharon King

Helen Bardecker

Being one of five children and the oldest daughter created a unique bond for me with my Mom. She is not only my mom, but she has been my mentor. She taught me how to take care of myself, be independent, be a mediator, get dinner on the table for seven people all at the same time and she taught me how to laugh and enjoy life!
I love you Mom! Happy Mother's Day!
— Your daughter Patricia Schott Turner

Sonia Sandhu

Mother by definition means the qualities characteristic of a mother, as maternal affection. This doesn’t even begin to explain what you’ve been to us, Mom. There’s just so many memorable moments we’ve had that we couldn’t pick out just one particular moment; with four kids, it’s somewhat of a challenge. Mom, you’re the most caring and loving mom and wife we’ve ever met. Yes, every child/wife says this about their mother and we’re no different. First of all, kudos to you Mom! You’re raising four wild children and we have know idea how you do it. You’ve put up with us crying and screaming, laughing and bickering, or being sick and we love you for every little thing you’ve ever done for us. Ever since you’ve gotten sick, our love and respect has only increased for you. We know you’ll get better soon enough, so don’t put so much stress on you’re mind! You do so much for us with unconditional love and we are greatly appreciative of it, even though it might not show sometimes. Our teenage years are going to be hardest on you and Dad, and it’s inevitable; but we want you to know that we still love you and we’re positive you already know it. You’re going to live a great, healthy life and will have great fun raising your grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Thanks for helping with homework, taking us back and forth from football/basketball/track, and for loving us all equally. WE LOVE YOU!!

Margaret Ann Suckut

My wonderful Mother, Margaret Ann Suckut, is a complete blast to be around. She is a beautiful blonde, 70 going on 50, sneaks over to do my ironing, LOVES and supports her family totally, and is a wonderful Christian whom I admire so much. She is my best friend.
My favorite moment with Mom goes back to May, 1986 sitting in my little Toyota truck parked by the side of Hume Lake. We were at a retreat and had gone for a drive. All weekend we had been learning about Jesus and how He can change your life. I had just asked Him into my life a few months prior and was so blown away by how He changed my life and made me brand new. I wanted that so bad for Mom. She was separated from Dad at the time and searching for answers.
We sat there and looked at the lake and talked about God, my Dad, our family, our lives. Mom shared openly about her hurts and asked questions about Jesus. At that moment, just sitting there by the lake, something felt like a turning point. I knew God was working on Mom's heart.
The next morning at Chapel service, Mom walked down the aisle and accepted Jesus Christ as her personal savior. She returned home and worked things out with Daddy, and they enjoyed 17 more years together before he died in 2003. I am so grateful for those moments by the lake. I love you Momie!

Love, Kelly Clanton