Reminded of Blessings

Today could have been really hard. It was 2 years and 6 hrs ago that I was beside my mom as she died.It was a Tuesday and a crisp, sunny day much like today.This morning on my ride, she consumed my thoughts. Not the mournful pain of loss but the wonderment in what she would think of this whole Sea To Sea. Mom was a giver...to the point of saintly self-sacrifice. She would completely support and encourage raising money to give a hand up to others. She would be happy that her chubby youngest daughter wasn't letting anyone determine what she physically capable of. She would be shocked at how much I spent on my bike!(I can hear her-Oh, Gayle! couldn't you do with something less so that more of the money could go to the poor?)She would be a little frustrated that we are planning my Un-Wedding Party and not my Wedding but she'd deal with it. My sister Ivy and I often look back and realize just how poor we were as children but never knew it. Mom would have not allowed those thoughts. Mom knew how lucky and wealthy we were compared to others.How blessed. And she would have gotten her rolling pin ready as the cookie orders have started to come in already.

Yes the fund-raising has started. Our support group, Pedals & Prayers, met on Tuesday and the drive to raise the $10, 000 sponsorship is a go. Actually, We are working as a team for all the riders from our church, 4 now including myself, my mentor John Vandersteen, our pastor Pieter and Scott Fletcher so we are looking at $26, 000 as a team.
The first of many efforts are the sugar cookies. For $5 per dozen, I'm covering all the holidays. So the word is getting out. Just this morning, my friend Tracy, sent an email to her network. She is incredible! She even did a official order form and everything! Within hours both Tracy and I had orders. Not just for the first batch at Thankgiving but for Halloween, Christmas and even next May! And we haven't even announced it at my church yet! What a blessing of support!
On a day that could be spent in sadness of loss, I am being reminded of all that I have. What a difference 2 years makes. 2 years ago I had a mom who I could call and visit, a person that was home;now I have cherished memories and the blessing of having a mom worth missing. 2 years ago I was a stranger, quietly sitting in the back of First CRC, often in tears, dealing with loss;now they are my cherished church home, who have embraced me with love, encouragement and support and are sending me out to represent them. I am honoured.
I think Mom would be pleased.