Many moons ago (442 of them, if you’re counting) there was a baby born in Brevard, North Carolina. His mother was thrilled because it was back in the day where you didn’t have an option to discover the sex of your child prior to birth and nere a girl name was chosen. Joshua came into the world stubbornly and with opinion. Some personality traits begin, literally, as we take our first breath!
From that day forward this boy was my center. My life gained purpose that day like it had never had; a determination to care for him, provide him security, love him beyond measure and let him never doubt that he has a cheerleader. That plan was easy. Joshua was easy. He, quickly, became a protector of his mama. I am reminded of the time that we had a rat (mouse, actually) running around the outside walls of our living room. As I screamed for Josh to stay on the couch, he forcefully yelled at the mouse, “don’t you scare my mama!” I am blessed that he knows the value of family and maintaining ties with those we love.
Fast forward to Joshua’s school years and beyond. He graduated with honors, both from high school and college. He immediately went to work and began to gather his life plan. He has an affection for automobiles. He embraces his heritage, hunting when his time allows, listening to a variety of music and, yes, collecting cars. He set out to find a wife that would be a lifetime partner to him; someone who would embrace his sense of adventure. He found that in Laura. She’s that girl; the one who doesn’t say no to another car/truck in the driveway AND appreciates live Christmas trees! They set out to expand their lives and did so by adding Colton to the mix in 2011. Now THAT rocked all of our worlds! This morning Colton recorded a video for his daddy’s birthday. He identified Josh as his best friend. The life cycle continues; another generation being raised to love and appreciate family.
As I woke this morning to the pitter-patter of small feet I smiled. Josh and Laura could not have catalog ordered a child any more like his father. At that moment my heart was overwhelmed that Pop and I have been blessed to raise Joshua, and now, to be grandparents to Colton. If you’ve ever talked parenting with me you know that I believe that God gave me an easy child because He knew I couldn’t do hard. I do believe that to be true. I also believe that somewhere along the way I was able to convey to that boy born 37 years ago today that I love him unconditionally, through life crisis, through tears, through joy, with the joining of his new family and beyond. I wouldn’t redo one minute of our journey, Joshua, and I thank God for allowing me the privilege of being your mom.
Nana Reflections 