Happy Mother's Day

5/12/24

Good morning, Family and Friends,

I hope this letter finds you all well today, especially as we honor our own mommas, sisters, daughters, aunts, and friends. I am in awe of your commitment to family and to raising amazing humans. Today, may "Her children rise up and call her blessed (happy, prosperous, to be admired)." Proverbs 31:28.

You might recall a story I wrote about my birth HERE. My momma was determined from the beginning to protect me. She lovingly taught me the ways to be a good person as I grew into adulthood. She was a momma bear, though, fierce to fend off the fiery darts of the enemy. Our relationship began to change into one of friendship somewhere along the way, which was a sweet bond that I cherish even today. She continued to mentor me through the years with the wisdom she gained along the way. Momma has always been my biggest cheerleader. So, today, I honor her for loving me exceedingly and abundantly. And I pray that those who meet Momma along her life journey will encounter the light of love that she emits daily and be blessed by it.

Next, my sisters come to mind as I think about the life battles they have faced. From child loss to cancer, they have had monumental challenges, to say the least. And yet their resiliency and grace emanate like the beautiful light surrounding them. They continue to step into each day knowing they have brand new mercies and trust in God's providence. I pray that each of my sisters would feel the unending, never-forsaking love from the Father and always remember they are held.

My three daughters are amazing! What can I say? They are all hilarious, serious, loving, supportive, goofy, beautiful, brilliant...Should I go on? The one thing that gets me every time, though, is watching them teach their children. They are such good parents to my grandchildren. I think back to my young momma days and think how much more introspective they are about raising their kiddos. I pray for each of my girls that they will feel the love of their ancestors surrounding them with nurturing guidance - that they will never feel alone in their great calling as a momma - and that they will continue to have the abiding strength it takes each day to raise intelligent and loving children.

Last but certainly not least, I want to honor a salt-of-the-earth woman who passed on this week. I think I can safely say that I never knew a more grounded woman and dear friend than Miss Fern Hennesse. I met this dear soul back in the late 80s, and we became friends. She and her husband Ray were our neighbors when we lived in Lexington, Arkansas. I learned so much from her practical perspective on life and faith. I pray that Miss Fern's family and friends will feel the comfort and love of the Holy Spirit, especially as we all grieve the passing of this beautiful woman.

Being a momma is a challenging calling; there's no doubt about it. We are a unique bunch of gals. Standing strong among these life-giving beauties, I feel blessed beyond compare. I honor each of you today and pray that you will continue making your positive imprint on the next generation(s) by loving big and setting strong and encouraging examples to follow. Be well.

Sending love and light,

Lestie

Updates:

I am working on a new children's book series. It's a 4-season series about a scrappy young outdoorsy girl. I think you will love her. 

I also work with April Cox at Self Publishing Made Simple as a student mentor teaching Canva for Authors. This has been a lot of fun giving back and helping the budding authors who have come after me.

I am doing some touch-ups on my website. The few glitches should be righted shortly.

I will be out of commission, hopefully for a short stent, as I have surgery coming up on Monday.

Finally, Congratulations to my niece and her hubby, who are now the proud parents of a handsome and healthy boy. Our family continues to grow, and our cup overflows.

Honoring Moms

 

This picture represents the beautiful mommas I spoke of in the letter. My momma is laughing in the center picture. Miss Fern sits left of her. My three daughters are from the top right, downward. Center bottom and rightward are my lovely sisters.

 

Yes, I am a blessed momma.