A Mother

I woke this morning with thoughts of my mother.  I was the one who made her a mother, and throughout her life, it was this role that she poured her whole soul into.  I carefully recall tender moments with my mom and turn them over in my mind.  I do this often to hold on to the sight and feel of her, now that there are no new memories being made.  At this moment, I picture her just on the other side, radiant and lovely in her heavenly state, my brother at her side and a smile on her face.  Love for her family flowing from her and through her, unrestrained.



Left: my mom and I at my baby blessing.


Right: my mom and I just a month before she passed away.





My thoughts move on to the one who made me a mother: my Josh, far away in Korea,serving the Lord and becoming a man of faith and strength, a man like his father.  Becoming a mother changed everything, EVERYTHING.  I received an email today from Josh's mission mom, Sister Furniss, which said,

We are grateful for the service Elder Crowther is giving to the Lord here in Korea.  He is devoting a part of his life to helping others have blessings that will last through eternity. We realize that much of our thanks goes to wonderful mothers who devoted a part of their life to raising these fine missionaries. Pres. David O. McKay said, “she who rears successfully … sons and daughters whose immortal souls will be exerting an influence throughout the ages … deserves the highest honor that man can give."


Your love is felt by your son each day.  The mission can be challenging, but your love is sustaining them.  It is said that when thoughts of your child are in your heart, they are never far away from home.  Abraham Lincoln said, “I remember my mother’s prayers and they have always followed me.  They have clung to me all my life”.  As this Mothers’ Day approaches I hope you can feel assured that your love and prayers do cling to your child’s heart, and bless them as they faithfully serve the Lord.


What a privilege to be mother to my boy.


Thoughts of my girls bring a smile to my face and great joy to my heart.  Each one is a treasure.

Jenna and I when she was 11 months old.  Oh, how I love those beautiful blue eyes and smile - she warms my heart.

Kellie and I when she was 9 months old.  Kellie is joy and laughter and enthusiasm for life. 

Alissa and I when she was 2 months old.  Such a beautiful, chubby little thing.  I loved her baby cheeks!  She is a beautiful, tall, lovely lady now.

Katie and I at 6 months.  She was the last piece to our family puzzle and made everything seem complete.  How I love the kind and witty ways of my youngest.

How blessed I am for the gift of a mother who cherished her role.  How blessed I am for the opportunity to fill that role myself.  In this sacred charge is both opportunity and responsibility, joy and grief, and layer upon layer of love.  

P.S.  If you couldn't tell, I am a strong believer in the importance of mothers and mothering.  Check out this link to see a tribute to mothers.