Blessed.

This goes out to the coolest mom on the block (yes I said cool...).

For a mom who year after year wants only words as gifts, it's surprising that I never run out of genuine things to say. It seems as though each continuing letter has started with "P.P.P.S...." since I first began writing letters to mom. Every year I see her from a different light, a new appreciation, an admiring perspective. Let's just say the well of affirming words never runs dry in regards to Barb Chase. Anyone who knows her could say that very thing.

This goes out to you Mom...
From the moment that I left for college, my whole mentality and perspective began to change. At moments, I would almost feel an out of body experience as I would watch my life with new eyes - eyes of appreciation and respect...eyes that noticed the mold both you and Dad carefully shaped me in...eyes that would frequently tear up as I recognized all that you sacrificed to demonstrate your love to us. I am so proud to say that I had a wonderful model for marriage, parenting, and a servant's heart to the community. "How did I ever deserve such a beautiful description of His love?" I would think to myself. Every good and perfect gift is from above...that is definitely you mom.


I love your desire for sincerity. You seek after the raw, genuine heart of all people. You cut deep and fast - yet in turn, people confide in you with their deepest emotions and secrets. You often feel burdened by the troubles of those around you, but that is because you live, breathe and feel their story as they share with you! Not many people can actually hear information and care enough to have sleepless nights about it. While you see this as a negative thing because it takes a toll on your rest (which that is an entirely different note), take a step back and notice what a precious gem you are. As I have watched this servant heart about you, I have frequently found myself in similar situations. Yet looking at your life and the sacrifices of sleep, emotional strength, and even some friendships, I can only wish to do the same. It is just such a beautiful thing to not want to replicate...no matter the cost.


I love your desire for sincere apologies. How silly this may sound, I absolutely esteem your negative reaction toward putting a "band aid" over conflict. Your willingness and persistence to talk about tough stuff is a treasured characteristic about you. Even when the subject will most likely result in unwanted emotions and even irrational comments that might fly back and forth...you are willing to stick it out for the betterment of the relationship. While I might have not said it before...THANK YOU for being the strong one! I now see the foundation of each conflict - your desire to mend the relationship for the long haul...not just for smiling faces that facade the real issue.

While physical distance between us is difficult and emotionally trying at times, rest assured that these foundational memories of you make you closer than you think. You are frequently (if not more) in conversation in this house. The imprint that you have left on my heart has outlived the day I graduated high school...or even college. My memories of you are still strong and will forever e remembered. I am looking forward to your legacy of sincere love and compassion being passed down through the generations. Thank you for instilling this longing in me.

I love you Mom!