Two Moms I've Claimed

Have you ever been “adopted” by someone else’s mom? Treated like you were part of the family and in such a way that you felt she was always delighted to see you? I have two moms like that in my life, and they belong to my friends, Rick and Amy Harris. Shirley Harris is Rick’s mother. Anita Zahniser is Amy’s mother. When I think of these two ladies, I can’t help but smile and feel a sense of warmth. Back in the 70s, we called them “warm fuzzies.”

When I think of comforting things I grew up with, I think of Holly Hobbie, footie pajamas, teddy bears, and Campbell’s soup. Today’s mugs represent Shirley and Anita because they make me feel warm all over, they bring out the sentimental and nostalgic in me, and they have that “take care of you” spirit about them. My mom is in Heaven now, but these are two ladies who I still get to hug, laugh with, and make memories with. I am so thankful they are in my life and for the unconditional love they’ve always shown me.

Shirley

Shirley is a sower—she sows into her loved ones’ lives with intention and compassion. I chose the “raking leaves” mug for her because not only does it represent hard work (for which she is exemplary)—it’s about working together. That’s really who Shirley is. She’s full of energy and ready to help her loved ones complete whatever task is at hand, whether it be a designer birthday cake (Shirley is quite the master), a garage sale, or setting up for a piano recital. I’ve witnessed Shirley in action on a number of occasions, and she always has a smile on her face and a song in her heart as she’s working. I don’t think she really considers it work. It’s how she loves people. She is tireless, devoted, and practical (another term for “if anyone can figure out a solution, it’s Shirley”)—a perfect combination for helping loved ones accomplish important things. And she makes you feel important.

I always feel a sense of anticipation when I know Shirley’s coming to visit because chances are I’ll get to see her, and seeing her means that I am seen—she wants to know how I am; she cares about who I am and the important things going on in my life. When my parents were ill, Shirley always took an interest, sending cards and emails to let me know she was praying and feeling for me. We’re not blood relations, but she’s a mom I am happy to claim as one of my special ones.

Like my own mom (with the same cool name), Shirley appreciates the simple things in life. She takes the time to notice what’s going on around her and, as a result, develops anecdotes and words of wisdom to pass on. I’d love to go visit her and her husband, Ray, in Idaho sometime so I can experience Shirley in her home environment—I think it would be a treat to be her guest. But I’m so thankful for the time she gets to spend here in Oregon. I’m always delighted to see her.

Anita

When I think of Anita, bubbliness comes to mind—even in the way she walks. She is adventurous and likes to have a good time—thus the “jumping off the diving board” mug. But I feel like “diving in” has also been a spiritual metaphor for her life as she’s traveled to Japan to work hands-on with CBSI (Community Bible Study International). She is spiritually minded, very insightful, and has a huge heart for the lost. Along with that, she possesses a special anointing for relating to people from other cultures. I admire her passion to share the Gospel, and it spurs me on. Her philosophy is “Lord, how can I be of service?”

Anita has always been supportive of me as a teacher, having been one for many years herself. She’s always been ready with a word of encouragement or a fresh idea for my classes. It was sometime after I took a short break from teaching though that I got to know Anita on a more personal level. Much of that connection was built as I did Bible study with her and three friends in her home. It enabled me to learn more about Anita and was an avenue God used to knit our hearts together.

Anita is loving. She’s a hugger too, and I love that about her. She always has a warm smile—and it’s a smile that you can see even in her eyes. I always feel so special and valued when she greets me. Having two daughters of her own already, she’s been kind enough to adopt me as a third. We all need a mom, and since mine’s “on sabbatical” in Heaven—until we can reconnect—it’s so nice to know I have someone who will treat me like “a kid.” And by that I mean that Anita is nurturing, inquisitive, and preferential in regard to me. Whether it’s taking me shopping to buy a new dress, inviting me to a family party, or just checking to see how I’m doing—Anita lights up my life in a way that is maternal, fun-loving, and simply makes me want to smile.  

What More Can I Say?

I treasure both these ladies and their influence on their families’ lives—of which I humbly consider myself a part—I just love to be around them, learn from them, and visit with them. Both Shirley and Anita can cook like nobody’s business, are resourceful, and well—uber-intelligent. Not only are they incredibly smart—they have wisdom in areas that I need wisdom in. I try to pay attention to what they have to say—about serving God, being frugal, and placing family as a top priority. They are leaving a legacy that is stunning, and I am blessed to be getting in on some of its richness.

I love you both. Thank you for filling in the “mom gaps” of my life—for taking the time to love me. You’ve each taken up permanent residence in my heart.