God moves through Mother’s Day and a little noon lunch

A huge bouquet of colorful flowers greeted employees walking into the lobby of Allina Health this week. It was a glimpse of beauty after a long winter in celebration of the holiday to come — Mother’s Day. 

I remember years of going to church as a family on Mother’s Day, all dressed in our Sunday best. After the service, we kids would scurry to find Grandma Dolly and Grandpa Maurie in the narthex to invite them to “a little noon lunch” (farming lingo) at The Valley Supper Club. If plans hadn’t already been made, they knew it was coming. Nonetheless, the joy of extending the in-person invitation remained. 

We’d stop at home to change clothes on our way to pick up Grandma Elaine, who attended church in Redwood. She was always ready, dressed to the nines with a cute little scarf and pin, waiting on the carpeted steps in the split-level entrance of her home. One of us kids would run up to the door to get her, exclaiming “Happy Mother’s Day!” She’d reply with a warm, “Thanks, hunny” and a smile. After a few hugs and boosting her into the vehicle, we were off to meet Grandma Dolly and Grandpa Maurie for lunch. 

In a few minute’s time, we’d roll up and park next to Grandma and Grandpa’s tan Buick LeSabre. Grandma Dolly would have the passenger mirror down, patting lipstick on her cheeks and blending the color with a tissue. She was a beautiful lady and always looked put-together. I remember asking why she used lipstick on her cheeks one day as I watched her freshen up. She shrugged saying, “It’s the only way to make sure my lipstick and blush match!” It seemed so simple. “Duh, Alissa,” I thought. 

Walking into the restaurant, the aroma of home-style cooking wafted from the kitchen. Trays filled with turkey and dressing, pot roast and potatoes, and fancy desserts flashed by as we were seated. Each person would eagerly choose a seat, knowing we wouldn’t get hot-from-the-oven popovers until the waitress saw we were settled. P O P O V E R S ... The Valley was known for them and they were delicious. 

I didn’t care where I sat at our table for seven. (We all got along so well.) If I sat by Grandma Elaine I knew I’d have great conversation. She was the best listener. To this day, I’m in awe of how engaged she’d be when we talked. She hung on every word. A shot gun could have gone off in the next room and she’d continue listening, eager to hear what I had to say next. She made everyone feel important. 

If I sat by Grandma Dolly, I was sure to get a shoulder rub, tons of smiles and winks too! Her nature was compassionate and warm, and she showed her family love through physical touch and words of affirmation. But it never failed, at some point during the meal I’d look up to see an empty chair. “Where’s Grandma?” I’d ask, looking over at my dad. He’d point across the room to Grandma, standing over another table chatting and smiling. She was a social butterfly and a small-town girl who knew everyone. It was delightful seeing her bless others through joyful conversation. She made everyone feel loved. 

And my mom: Surprised I haven’t mentioned her yet? (I saved the best for last.) Sitting by my mom is the most nourishing experience. She’s the epitome of nurturer and goes above and beyond what any mother would be expected to do. She speaks every love language (The Five Love Languages, Gary Chapman) and communicates care and compassion through her words, actions and gifts. She nourishes everyone. 

So there we’d sit, laughing and reminiscing over popovers, turkey dinners and chocolate cake. So much love emanated from that table. Everyone was happy. 

Fast forward to 2018, a year threaded with the sorrow of losing the last grandparent. This week has been especially challenging for my mom, who lost her mother, best friend and greatest confidant of 55 years. In addition to battling emotions of orphanhood during Mother’s Day week, she had to find peace with Grandma’s house being listed, shown and sold — all in one day. Grandma’s car was taken to a lot for sale too. The physical act of “letting go,” is a bumpy road with unexpected potholes to boot; this week has proven so.

But I have seen the most beautiful transformation in my Mom. Through it all — going through Grandma’s clothes, figuring out the finances, cleaning and staging the house — she’s been strong with an open heart to feel (not numb) the pain. She has looked to the Lord for strength and assurance during the toughest moments.

She is clothed in strength and dignity;

she can laugh at the days to come. 

She speaks with wisdom,

and faithful instruction is on her tongue. 

Proverbs 31:25-26

That’s Mom. She’s able to look ahead through her hope in Christ alone. Mom’s healing and she’s inviting the Spirit to work through her to help everyone else heal too. That’s what Mom does. 

So this Mother’s Day and every one thereafter, we’ll celebrate the women who made it all possible — Grandma Dolly, Grandma Elaine and Mom. May the happy memories forever shine bright in our minds and hearts. 

Because God moves through Mother’s Day and a little noon lunch. 

2018