A Proverbs 31 Woman

I have struggled over the last week to find the words to write this post. On May 20th, my precious Mamaw Porter went to be with Jesus. Words can truly not express the variety of emotions that I have been flooded with over the last month. I am beyond thankful and grateful that I was able to spend this past month in Jackson and get to visit with her so much. Ella Kate could bring a smile to Mamaw's face when nothing else seemed to do it. Mamaw told me in one of our ICU visits that she "never knew love until Ella Kate came along." While I take offense to this being her first born grandchild=), I know what she meant. She and Ella Kate had such love for each other. I feel so blessed to be able to be a stay at home mom for many reasons, but especially right now because EK and I have been able to spend so much time in Jackson with my grandparents.

At Mamaw's graveside service, a special friend of Mamaw's spoke of her sweet spirit and read from Proverbs 31. She was the definition of this type of woman. She and my dear Papaw celebrated their 66th wedding anniversary a couple of weeks ago in the hospital. Watching the way that they looked at each other really melted my heart. They set a wonderful example for our whole family of what marriage should look like. Mamaw had a servant's heart. She and my Papaw lived at St. Catherine's Village in Madison for 17 years. Every morning, Mamaw would go down to the assisted living wing and help pour coffee for the residents. She just loved being able to serve and visit with the people and I know she was a light in each of their lives. She also worked in the church nursery every single week. Now, having worked in the nursery a lot in my life, it takes a special person to actually WANT to do that each week. She was just that special. My Mamaw could do some sewing. I wish I was a talented as she was. She could smock beautifully. She tried to teach me last summer, but it was a waste. I was not a very good student because it requires a lot of time and patience....both of which I am usually running low on. But, she did smock some precious dresses for Ella Kate as well as make a lot of other things that I will cherish forever. The dress in the picture above is one of her creations. So special. She loved to make baby dolls. She had tons of them and would make outfit after outfit to give away. I could go on and on about Mamaw.

Mamaw loved Jesus with all her heart. So I know she is dancing with Him right now. It doesn't make me miss her any less, but what a comfort and peace to know that we did not have to say goodbye forever!!! What a glorious day when we will meet again!!!!!