Mom...

On this day dedicated to Mom's all around the US, I wanted to express my thanks to my mom for raising me, feeding me, tolerating me, feeding me protecting me, feeding me and my friends, guiding me, and of course... Feeding me!

Many, not just my sister and me, know Jo Carmichael as "Mom!"   Because of dad's career as a Naval Aviator that included numerous tours as Commanding Officer of, the Squadron, the Airwing or the Ship, Mom was called upon countless times to serve the role as nurturer, confidant, disciplinarian, councilor and cheer leader to many Junior Officer wives and yes even their kids as well.  I learn every day just how much of an influence she had on many peoples lives, and how fortunate I am to have her as my Mom too!

Mom instilled a  set of values that even today I depend on to make my way through my cluttered life.  My successes I can attribute to my Mom's teachings of dedication and compassion, and a care for others beyond myself.  And even though I do not always live up to her high example, she sure has set a great goal!  Many of times I find myself asking, would mom be proud of me if... and that answer has served to guide me to this day!

My aggressiveness comes from Dad, but my temperance comes from Mom!  Without her I'm sure my size 12's would have found their way many more times into my all too expressive mouth!  And I cannot thank her enough for those teachings, and probably a few less beatings!

Mom is certainly a renaissance woman, with talents that allow her to feel comfortable in a room full of dignitaries, (She's dined with the Queen of England on the yacht Britannia for crying out loud!) as she is in a room full of baseball playing teenagers!  She has done it all with grace, dignity, and compassion for all around her.  I am in awe at her social dexterity!

But I am fortunate to call her my Mom!  And you can too, she's proven that time and time again!

Here's to you mom, Happy Mother's Day!