Twenty-seven years ago today....

...I gave birth to my first-born...A son! And one in whom the Lord is well-pleased! And one in whom I hold extreme motherly pride and a blessed "return of my time invested" in his life!

Michael, when you read this, please know that many years ago I wondered what kind of a young man you would become; who you might marry; how the Lord might use you to His glory; what my influence on you might reflect; and how you would leave a legacy on this earth! WOW...Such parental hopes, dreams and aspirations! I can truly say there hasn't been a time when I've been disappointed in your accomplishments...Oh no...Quite the contrary, my son! You have been the epitome of discipline; the student all teachers wish for and dream about; the citizen a community takes pride in; the friend of so many fine young people across the US; the brother two sisters couldn't be prouder of; the husband a young bride so prayerfully hopes for! And last, but certainly not least, the mature young adult I prayed for as a child, spanked as a toddler, and laughed with as a teenager! I look upon you and and I bow my head with thankfulness in my heart...I raised you well, and you have become more than I could have ever hoped and dreamed for. May this be the happiest of all birthdays past!!

Love, Mom