My Definition
Let me begin by saying, in my opinion, merely giving birth does not entitle anyone to celebrate this day. For one, a “mom” must do right by her children. We can all think of two notable exceptions of women who failed miserably. To me, they have no business being wished a “Happy Mother’s Day”.
For Sue, well, she is a wonderful mom. Loving. Caring. Nurturing. Her sacrifices for her children are too many to even remember, yet she always held them accountable. Really, her approach to parenting is a perfect mix. She defines being a mom. Ryan and Kari love her so much.
Bitter-Sweet
I wish there was a way to end the grief she will inevitably feel on-and-off today. I suspect she will find herself alternating between joy and sadness. Actually, as I think about this, she will likely feel both simultaneously when she reflects upon the “happy” times. This just seems like a volatile mix…
The one thing that always struck me as awesome about Sue on Mother’s Day is she never made the day about her! She wanted to make it memorable for the kids. She would ask them what they wanted to do (and I obediently followed along). This would typically end up with her on a baseball field playing kickball, or shooting hoops in the driveway, or snapping pictures , or having a family picnic.
This year, like last, will be different. I will say it is much nicer being at home (and not in a hospital) for her today. As for me, I’ll do my best to make her day a happy one. I’ve already begun trying, as it turns out, by staying up with Ryan last night (another night without nurses care!). I hope she is having sweet dreams right now.
Update 9:30 AM
Sue came down shortly after I posted (above). She had a rough night, telling me she was “thinking about everything”. I know exactly what she means. Those are the all-to-common nights when the brain refuses to give you any peace. It’s torture. Pure torment.
She sat with me on the love seat we have in Ryan’s room. Mostly, this is occupied by the nurse at night and not used during the day. Then she curled-up in a ball, laid her head on my lap and fell asleep. I slipped from under her and got Ryan up for the day.
Without missing an opportunity, Duke was on the scene. He snuggled right in.
Duke comforts Sue on Mother's Day
Now, you must know this is not Duke’s preferred position. He was just cramped for space. You see, he likes to lay around (and sometimes on) her head.
Really! I’m not joking!
Sue, I hope you had a nice Mother’s Day with your family (besides the unknown photo op, lol)! Ken, I can always count on a laugh when I read your posts. My kids at St. Mary’s finally brought in the last of the donations they asked the community for during Lent, and I am proud they reached their goal of $500.00. I hope to do more in the future, because you, Sue, and Kari deserve to be taken care of with all the caring and giving you do. Love and prayers to you all, especially for Ryan!!!
I have been missing my own Mom every year on Mother’s Day for the last 19 years. Now I look at the Mom that Sue is, and know that she is my NEW hero. Bittersweet day, I get it. Sue, you amaze me.
Love the update, photo and replies. Checking in often between cooking and doing what most of us mothers love to do, even on our day, Mother’s Day. Love
Ken ,Great picture,Hope you both get some much needed rest…Duke does get in most pics ,doesn’t he??? :):) He really wanted to wish Sue Happy Mothers Day :):):)
Happy Mother’s Day ,Sue. May your day be blessed as we all pray for a miracle ( they do happen) God bless your wonderful family and give Ryan a big hug…..and Kari and Ken too!!!!! Love Gail
LOVE the picture today Ken. When I picture Sue in my mom I will forever see the clip from the today show where she says to Ryan that he got a little bump on his head. Such a loving moment that personifies her as a Mother. Praying for another miracle today in a daily string of miracles for Sue.
Happy Mother’s Day Sue! I can only hope that I raise my daughter half as well as you raised Ryan and Kari. You are an amazingly strong and caring woman. Always here!
Happy Mother’s Day Sue! You are the true example of a wonderful Mom. It’s good to know that today will be your day spent in the comfort of your own lovely home, with those you love most right there with you. May we always remember to make every second count, to not let an opportunity pass us by without letting those we love know what we feel for them so deeply within our heart, and that we never take one single moment of life for granted. Your sacrifices and loving example are a true inspiration to all of us in our often feeble
attempt to live life as we were meant to do. Love and prayers to you and your beautiful family. Peggie
Happy Mother’s Day Sue-
My thoughts and prayers are with you on this day and always.
You are a woman of strength!
Jane
Happy Mothers Day to Sue! I wish you all a wonderful day!
STILL HERE, ALWAYS HERE, AND WILL BE HERE FOREVER! YOU SAID IT, KEN, “TRY TO THINK ABOUT THE HAPPY TIMES!” WE ARE PRAYING THAT YOUR FAMILY WILL SEE THOSE HAPPIEST OF TIMES AGAIN, AND THAT RYAN WILL BE WELL. GOD IS WITH US, LOVE TO ALL. MAKE THIS A GOOD DAY TOGETHER!
Sue is truly blessed to have 2 great children and a husband who love and honor her so much. We all wish her a mostly-happy Mother’s Day too. I’m sure one thing that would make her happy is if you can take a nap today, Ken. Sorry to hear it was another sleepless night for you (but of course Ryan and Sue are worth it).