She rises while it is yet night and provides food for her household and portions for her maidens. Proverbs 31:15

I never remember waking up and finding my mother in bed.

She was always awake and busy when I rose as a kid. During the school year, she would be working on breakfast for us and getting a head start on preparing supper. She had likely already cleaned the bathroom or done a load of laundry. (And hung it out on the clothesline!)

In the summer, she might be peeling tomatoes to can or picking vegetables in the garden. Mom was a dynamo… in the morning. Evening was a different story. By evening she was exhausted, and I remember watching her head bob as she nodded off while trying to read the newspaper, a book or her Sunday school lesson. Ultimately, she would give up and go to bed. Another day was coming.

So when I read Proverbs 31 and get to verse 15, I pause and remember Mom’s early morning industry. But I also think about some other things that aren’t so clearly noted here.

I remember all the books she read to us. I love to read because it brought her so much joy.

I remember that Wednesday was ‘Beach Day’ in the summertime.

We worked hard on the other days, so we could go spend the day at Arrowhead Beach on the Chowan river most Wednesdays. We always stopped for ice cream on the way home!

I remember that Mom always taught a ladies Sunday school class.

As a matter of fact, she started teaching the ‘old ladies class’ at her little country church when she was only 16. Mom taught Sunday School for over 50 years! I’m thankful for her example and love to teach/lead small groups!

We had a hot meal as a family almost every night.

Mom was (and is) a great cook! Eating together was a priority for our family. I’m thankful for this legacy and that Stacy sustains that tradition for our family.

Mom served for 30 years as a school nurse in our district.

She gave up the demands, excitement, irregular hours and financial benefits of hospital nursing to become a school nurse when I started kindergarten. I delight in memories of summers off, snow days and much time together.

Mom sacrificed in many ways for our family. She continues to sacrifice her desires and comfort for our family even now.

I’m so thankful for her example! I love you, Mom! Happy Mother’s Day!

I wonder, when you read Proverbs 31:10-31, what verse or phrase jumps off the page and calls to mind a memory of your mother?

Take time to let her know, and don’t forget this part…

Her children rise up and call her blessed;

Her husband also, and he praises her…