Why my Mom is the most successful woman I know.

Mom,

Prov 31:10-31 

A good woman is hard to find,
   and worth far more than diamonds.

You are priceless!

Her husband trusts her without reserve,
   and never has reason to regret it.
Never spiteful, she treats him generously
   all her life long.

From the moment you met Dad, you have been a jewel in his crown (pardon the King pun). With your faithful witness you introduced him to Christ, and then you quietly supported his lead of our family. You have shown me how a wife should behave. 

She shops around for the best yarns and cottons,
   and enjoys knitting and sewing.

The countless baby blankets you've made, or the kuspuk's you've sewn. There's no end to your talent!

She's like a trading ship that sails to faraway places
   and brings back exotic surprises.

With frozen delights from Glenwood's, or a special deal from Leah Martin. You know how to provide for your family, and make eating on a budget fun!

She's up before dawn, preparing breakfast
   for her family and organizing her day.

You did plenty before dawn... besides getting us on our way, well fed and on time. What about the times you were watching the sunrise after delivering a sweet baby (two of mine came before the crack of dawn!) ? Your hands are a blessing to many a mom.

She looks over a field and buys it,
   then, with money she's put aside, plants a garden.

<3 My favorite skill that I learned from you. ;)

First thing in the morning, she dresses for work,
   rolls up her sleeves, eager to get started.

Even now with your new job, I am SO proud of you! Even more proud, that you set aside your "career" to focus solely on the task of discipling your children for over 30 years!

She senses the worth of her work,
   is in no hurry to call it quits for the day.

You work circles around me, and your energy is astounding. You persevered through 27 years of homeschooling. There was no hurry or disdain, you knew it was worth your diligent effort.

She's skilled in the crafts of home and hearth,
   diligent in homemaking.

Faithful to teach us cooking, canning, and more.

She's quick to assist anyone in need,
   reaches out to help the poor.

Your servant heart has changed me forever. This did not come naturally to me, but watching you... it has become a way of life. Serving and loving others. 

She doesn't worry about her family when it snows;
   their winter clothes are all mended and ready to wear.
She makes her own clothing,
   and dresses in colorful linens and silks.

Hours at the sewing machine, or crocheting penguin hats. :)

Her husband is greatly respected
   when he deliberates with the city fathers.

Especially the ones in Adamstown. ;) With your encouragement and support, our Dad is a respected man, in church and community.

She designs gowns and sells them,
   brings the sweaters she knits to the dress shops.

Your ingenuity is astounding!

Her clothes are well-made and elegant,
   and she always faces tomorrow with a smile.
When she speaks she has something worthwhile to say,
   and she always says it kindly.

Your view of life, tact, grace, and optimism have colored my world. I pray inherit your poise.


She keeps an eye on everyone in her household,
   and keeps them all busy and productive.

You taught us about busy hands: making light work and staying out of trouble.

Her children respect and bless her;
   her husband joins in with words of praise:
"Many women have done wonderful things,
   but you've outclassed them all!"


Many women have done wonderful things, but you've outclassed them all!


Charm can mislead and beauty soon fades.
   The woman to be admired and praised
   is the woman who lives in the Fear-of-God.

Christ in you has made you more beautiful every day. My husband has told me that he hopes I age like my mother. I pray I will also live in the fear of God, for which you are to be admired and praised.

Give her everything she deserves!
   Festoon her life with praises!

You deserve so much more than words, but here they are. I love you, Mom, Happy Mother's Day!

Love, Laura

This Mother's Day week, I want to join with 1,000 other women blessing our mothers, and in joining our voices to reach out to mothers in Haiti. I know this will be a blessing to my mother, since she has been in the world of maternity care for over 20 years now. Will you join the 1,000 Moms Project?