Mother Number 1

As Mother's Day is approaching I wanted to take this week and blog about the three moms that have played a role in my life. I hold each mother dear to my heart and each have played a part in who I am today.

I am starting with the one that gave me life: My Mom, Judith Martha Rivera(Lawrence).

My Mother passed away on May 3, 1990. I do not have a lot of memories of my mom, but I do remember a few highs and lows. I remember....

• Her love
• She always let me hug and hang on her (that is why she got me a bear that said,"I'm so lovable).
• She tried to make everything special for her children (holidays, birthdays, vacations)
• She spoiled us way too much (She knew she wouldn't always be around).
• Even at a young age, I knew how much she loved the things of God.
• I loved hearing her sing ( she use to sing, "I cast all my cares" to me).
• She didn't believe in time out ( if you know what I mean).
• I only remember her sick.
• There were times I couldn't visit her at the hospital (she didn't want me to see her with tubes in her mouth).

There is a memory that has stayed with me through the years.

The last day we spend just the two of us. I woke up one morning ready for school and my dad told me that I was going to the hospital instead; to spend the day with my mom. My dad dropped me off and left me alone with my mom. I remember my mom looked so tired and so weak. Being a mom, I now know how hard it must have been to pull herself together to share a memory (probably her last) with her little girl. She patted the bed for me to jump on and she just held me for what seemed like an eternity, but I didn't mine. I loved hugging her and feeling safe in her arm. I remember her telling me how much she loved me and how sorry she was for being sick. She told me how special I was and I recall her praying with me. She loved to pray and I learned earlier on how important prayer was (She taught me that with her "no time out policy") That is for another blog!!! We spent the rest of the day playing board games (Head of the Class, Candyland, Sorry,etc) and watching TV. Leaving with my dad that evening I never knew that within a few days I would never have a day like this again with her. What a gut wrenching feeling for me! I will never forget that special day that we shared. It meant the world to me!!!

My mother was an extraordinary women. She had many gifts and talents, more then I could write on a blog. She left a legacy not only in her children but the people that she touched. I have heard so many stories from people telling me how my mom blessed their lives and how amazing she was. When I have talked to some of my moms former friends and told them I wish I had more memories of my mom and knew what kind of women she was, they would tell me, "Look in the mirror honey and you will see her." and "You are Judy reincarnated." That is the greatest compliment to get and I hope I keep growing to be more like her!!!

I wish I had more time with her and that she was able to see all that I have accomplished, but I know she would have been proud of me. I also know that God placed others in my life to see my accomplishments and tell me what any daughter would want to hear from their mom. I will see her again and when I do I am definitely jumping in her bed and letting her hug me for eternity!!!