Family Faces and Family Places

 My Mother has these beautiful Willow Tree figurines (now in our home), to symbolize our family. I love them. They each mean something different, and my mother chose a figurine to represent each of her children, and who they are. I asked her why she chose the particular figurine for each child, and she said there was a little bit of each charecteristic in all of her children. But she had to label us with just one word -- one word which she believes represents us the most. (The word is on the bottom of the figurine.) You may think, "Nah, Mom . . . you're wrong, that word is not me." But she is the mom, and mother knows best. :-) 

Mom and Dad

It is an anniversary piece, on the back it says:

"I Love Thee" 

I am so grateful that my parents love each other. I've always loved how dad puts his arm around my mom, and she leans in . . . just like this. 

True to form . . .

So glad they love each other! 

Their love begat children -- 5 of them. Each unique and different. 

*The following explanations are written by me -- not mom . . . if you want a more thorough explanation of who you are, ask her. Or, if you don't like who she thinks you are, then change. :-) 

Bob

"Inquisitive"

Meaning: curious or inquiring

Bob is always up on the latest technology, and using his mind to stay current on the next big thing. He is always thinking and questioning, and moving forward. He is a great business manager and a great father. Bob is always very generous, and he wants you to try "it" if he thinks "it" is good. He is a risk-taker, and loves doing crazy things like riding motorcycles. He is a great big brother . . . I could always count on protection from him when I was a little girl. He is fantastic. I love him.  

Kary

"Joyful"

Meaning: feeling, expressing, or causing great pleasure and happiness.

Kary is often the life of the party, singing, dancing, or being silly. She is always the motivator, and trying to help others find their own sense of happiness.This translated well into being an awesome gym teacher, and now a great mother. She keeps running to maintain the bounce in her step. She is a joy to be around, I love her. 

Beth

"Thoughtful"

Meaning: caring, mindful.

Bethanie is always willing to help, and give a hand to those in need. She is always there when you need her. She has helped take care of many of her nieces and nephews, and those around her. She worked with special needs children, that she loved dearly. Now she takes great care of her own beautiful boys. She is very thoughtful and mindful of others. She is a sweet sister. I love her. 

Mari 

"Spirited" 

Meaning: lively, vivacious 

 I am a lover of deep conversation and understanding. I can get pretty passionate about things, even dumb things. In other words . . . don't get me started! (However, I am calming down A LOT in my old age!) But there is some inner-fire that burns, and most of the time I am not sure which way to fan that fire. (If you have been reading my blog, you would know that is true!) I would not necessarily call me "lively" or "vivacious" on the outside, but definitely on my insides! I have surely needed my "spirit" as the companion to Charles, and helping him in all his (our) ventures. I love being a mom -- Moms are awesome. And I laugh at my daughter, who is turning out "spirited" just like me. :-)

 :-) 

  John

"Imaginative"

Meaning: having or showing creativity and inventiveness.

Johnny is always using his great imagination. That is what he does for work. From the time he was really little he was always creating things. It has transferred well into what he does now designing and creating websites, and instructional videos (and various other things that I don't understand). I remember when we were younger we would spend time creating songs together, and I was always amazed at what he pulled out of the air. Who knows what all is in his mind? Lots of crazy stuff, I am sure. He is my baby-brudder. I love him. 

 The whole family 

My parent's love begat: Inquisitive, joyful, thoughtful, spirited, and imaginative children.

Way to go Mom and Dad!   

 Who are you in your family? 

If your mom were to label you . . . what would be your word?