SuzyKK: Celebrating my Mom

Today is mom's 86th birthday. Tonight we will celebrate with a family dinner followed by chocolate-cherry cake and ice cream, and we'll probably play a game.

I am very blessed that mom is here with us in Wisconsin, especially when she had the option to stay in Arizona, her home of the last 50 years! That, in itself, says a lot about who she is. She is an adventurer! Open to change, a person who continues to grow and learn and invite new experiences into her life. And she is an inspiration to her children and everyone who knows her.

She's funny and smart and such a good sport when we play games.

You might be surprised to know that she is on FaceBook, reads the news and plays Scrabble and other games on her iPad and loves to browse and pin on Pinterest!

In Arizona mom volunteered for Back to School Clothing Drive for over 30 years; sewing and crocheting for children in need. She continues to serve kids here by sewing and crocheting for Operation Bootstrap, a local non-profit.

She is an avid reader and downloads books to her kindle regularly.

She sends emails to friends and does her banking on line!

She plays piano and does crosswords. If she wants to know something, she Googles it!

She prays every morning and night and once you're on her prayer list you stay there forever. I don't know how she remembers all those names!

In Arizona she belonged to the YMCA and as soon as the weather is warmer she plans to join our local Y and get back into a Silver Sneakers workout class. In the meantime, she does Tai Chi and some of the exercises she remembers from her classes.

She's taught me a lot through the years. Mostly by example. She is very generous and kind. She is quick to forgive and gives everyone the benefit of the doubt. She does not engage in gossip and never says an unkind word about anyone. She laughs and smiles a lot. She loves poetry and art and music and dance.

She's a lot of fun and so easy to be around. She has a strong faith. She loves deeply. She's strong and courageous. She's content.

She told me this morning, "It's a kick, to be 86"! :)

So, Happy Birthday, AnnieMae!! 86 looks gorgeous on you! I love you with all my heart. You continue to be my role model and inspiration. You give me courage and hope. I'm so blessed that you're my mom and best friend.