My mother passed away at only 62 years of age after a 15 month battle with Lou Gehrig's Disease. It was horrible watching my independent, loving mother become more and more dependent and unable to do things for herself. She left behind not only me, but 7 grandchildren whom she dearly loved. 

My mom was a FABULOUS grandmother. She taught my kids things like how to sew on buttons (a skill she knew to be essential for boys!), how to set a proper table, and how to count and tell apart colors for my younger ones. She brought projects for each holiday; baked with them; and read to them.  She would notice when I was in need of more dish towels, or a new skillet, or when she felt the kids “needed” a box of Goldfish and bring them the next week. She loved them unconditionally. She was an extremely astute judge of character (a quality I sorely lack). 

It’s almost 3 years since she passed away. Nine months after she died, nearly to the day, I welcomed my 8th child, a girl I named after her. She would have loved my daughter’s feisty personality and her determination. She is strong and sure of herself like my mother.  I am so sad my Mom isn't here to see how her two oldest grandsons have grown in to fine young men. She would have been so proud they are both attending college (the first in our family!). She would have loved to see her granddaughters become young ladies. 

I wish for her, that she never became sick with that terrible illness...because, even though I am 39 years old, I still want my mother and I miss her every day. 

Love your parents and your children, because tomorrow is never a guarantee. 

Thank you, Dr. Laura!

Mindy