Monday, May 14, 2007, 4:20 a.m., D.S.T., Nashville, Tennessee~

Dear Jouranl~

Louie here. Just woke up not even fifteen minutes ago; thought I'd get in some writing time before hubby or the kids arise to greet a new day.

Right now, it's peaceful. Hubby is purring like a kitten beside me: he is sound asleep--looks adorable with his hair all tousled like a little boy's, long, lanky arm flung across his face, lying on his back, legs askew. So innocent; makes me want to kiss him right on his nose! LOL Since having his back surgery he's slept like a log, he looks more rested. Maybe this one finally did the trick; let's hope so!

I hate seeing my man in pain. No woman likes to see her spouse suffering;  I am no exception.

Well, yesterday the gang treated me to an unforgettable day. First I was greeted with lots of hugs and kisses from the kiddies, and they all chanted, "Happy Mother's Day, Mama!" and handed me a beautiful plaque that they had made, stating on how glad they had me for a mother. Then Bill came waltzing in and handed me a small pink box. When I opened it I was shocked to find a pair of brand new diamond earrings. I didn't know what to say or think; I just cried.

I told Bill he didn't have to spend that kind of money on me; he told me to hush, and besides, he got them on sale, so neener, neener, neener (his words, not mine). Of course, that made me blubber all the more.

I am such a softie! I cry at the drop of a hat!

Then at church, all the mothers were recognized, and the pastor had us all come to the altar, where he prayed a special blessing over us. One mother was chosen as Mother of the Year. You can guess who that one was. Yep. Little ol' me. I got a bouquet of flowers, some gift certificates for a make-over, restaurants, and stores, and lots of enthusiastic applause from my church family. Bill and the kids made enough noise to fill a football stadium. More tears shed. I was a basketcase!

Yet I loved the attention. What mother doesn't?? :)

After church, the family took me out to Fire Mountain, where I was treated to a great meal. The manager of the restaurant personally welcomed all the mothers and gave them each a long-stemmed rose and a corsage. Of course, we had to wait a good while before we got a seat, but that was okay. By the time we got to our table in the back party room we were all starving; our tummies were doing plenty of rumbling, and poor Emir was screaming to be fed. He was hungry; we ALL were.

When we got back from Fire Mountain, the kids (and dear hubby) made me sit down; they would take care of the chores, get me anything I wanted. They did not let me lift a finger. They told me it was my day to relax; if anything came up, they'd handle it. Thsy said I did enough work for them; now it was their turn to spoil ME.

It was wonderful! :)

The day couldn't have been more perfect: temps in the seventies, partly cloudy skies, with sweet-scneted north breezes. It was a beautiful day, perfect for any deserving mother.

I couldn't have asked for anything more. I already had more than enough in my husband and family. I am indeed blessed. God has given me an incredible ministry in taking in unwanted children, and they have blessed me abundantly with their love, compassion, and giving spirit. I am indeed a lucky woman to have the family I do.

The kids are thriving, they have been enjoying good health (or as good as their bodies will let them), and other than Ronee' burning her hand or Johnny's seizure from a few months back, none have ended up in the ER lately. For that I can be eternally grateful.

God is watching out over the little ones; if they do get sick or injured, they seem to bounce right back, and it isn't long before they are back to their former happy, active selves! Yes, parenting children like mine takes intestinal fortitude, but it is worth everything, more than all the money in the world. I am indeed a fortunate woman, and God has been instrumental in giving me the family I'd always dreamed of having.

Boy, did He EVER!! LOL

I will write in here again soon; time to shut'er down, go back to sleep.

For a while at least. *grins*

Until next time, take care, and God bless!

(((HUGS))) and much love, the world's happiest mom, Louie May. D