My Mother

We are about to hit the road for Atlanta to visit my parents. It's Mother's Day weekend so in honor of the holiday I thought I would share a little bit about my Mother.

She was born in Crystal, Arkansas and named Linda Rhea Bates. Her mother died when she was only 3-years old.

Therefore, her sister who was 16-years older than her became her 'mother' more or less. That's why I consider my Aunt Jane my grandmother.

Her goal in life was to become a wife and mother and she had to learn along the way because she didn't really know what it was like to have a Mom.

I know she's been self-conscious about this throughout the years - hoping that she did things right. I'm here to say that she has.

My brother was born first but my Mom wanted a girl very badly. She got it with me. She named me DeAnna hoping I would never get a nickname. Oops.. is Dee a nickname?

Giving that she wanted a girl so bad she was very weird about me doing any sort of 'boy' things. She wanted a girlie-girl. She got one.

Here's us at the Gaylord Opryland last Christmas. So sad what's going on in Nashville. They say the Gaylord will be shut down for a year!

In front of race car driver Rusty Wallace's house.

Mom is always willing to go wherever I want to go whenever I want to go.

Even if it does mean attempting to snowshoe for the first time.

One of the best times we've ever had together is our trip to the Grand Canyon. We still talk about it that week.

She's also a grandmother to three grandchildren two of whom you see here. I hope these kids realize just how much she loves them and cares for them.

She always up for a glass of wine. That's what I'm talkin about!

And.. she loves the mountains as much as I do.

But.. she probably likes the beach more than I do..

That's all I have for today! All you mommies out there...HAPPY MOTHER'S DAY!!

And to my Mom! See you in a few! Love Ya!