A Memory

This is a little story in honor of my own Mama Bear - whom I love with my whole heart!

I think I was about 7 years old and it was getting close to Christmas. Living in Florida, we didn't have too many cold days, but I guess we were having one of our cold snaps and I needed an undershirt as extra warmth. I remember getting ready for school on that chilly morning and realizing that I didn't have any of these little shirts that fit me to wear under my sweater that day. So my Mama Bear said, "Wait one second..." and into my room she came with a present from under the tree. This was very unusual for me...I didn't get to open presents before Christmas, so I quickly opened it up and there lay before me a brand new pack of undershirts - all sweet and fresh and in my size.

This may seem like a bizarre little tale to you, but I totally remember feeling like, "Wow, she REALLY loves me." Of course, I knew that before. I NEVER lacked any feelings of love, but for some reason, in my little girl mind, that made it all clear. She wanted me to be warm and she had given me these shirts to do that job.

So why do I tell this story? I guess now that I am a Mama Bear myself, I completely understand that desire and need to protect my own Bear Cub. From the first time that I saw his little picture last April, I wanted only the best for this child. I want to keep him safe, warm, and love him forever and always. And if he ever needs something right before Christmas, guess what? I too will let him open a present so he can be warm on that chilly morning.

Just a memory, and a feeling of understanding... Thanks again for those undershirts, Mama -- I bet you never knew how much I'd appreciate those. :)