Any of you that know me, most likely know of my Mamaw Reagan and what an incredible blessing she has been to me over the years. I simply cannot reach a pedestal or cloud high enough to put her up on…seriously…she’s that amazing. Well, today (January 19) is her birthday. And if you don’t know about my Mamaw Reagan, let me share a bit about why she’s so special.

She has always been there for everyone with love and support that cannot be measured. She always puts others before herself…in everything. Even when she makes her amazing Belgian waffles. She’s always the last one to fix her plate…and usually takes the slightly burnt ones and insists “that’s how she likes them”. While that may be true, I’ve always had my doubts. I cannot think of one single time in my entire life when she has told anyone that she couldn’t be there, couldn’t take them somewhere, or couldn’t help them in any way due to something else she had going on. I’ve watched her drop many things, many times to help whoever may be in need….of anything. As hard as I try, I cannot match the love and support she shows others. She simply lives for others.

She never forgets a special occasion and always remembers to write, call, etc. She always has a way of making people feel special and taking the time to sit and write letters. I’m not talking about a card bought at hallmark with her name signed in it. I’m talking about a personal letter penned on every single flap of the card…and if there wasn’t enough room to write what she wanted to say, she’ll add in a couple sheets of stationery (that is designed in something the recipient would like I might add) that is also filled in front-to-back with barely a speck of paper un-inked. I love those letters. In a time where most people receive emails (which are fine), the personal touch and knowing she takes the time to sit and write is something I treasure.

As I sit here struggling to find the words that completely explain how much Mamaw Reagan means to me…the more I realize words can’t describe it. But I’ll say this…

I wouldn’t be where I am today without her love.

She has given me so much support over the years and exemplifies everything that is right with the world. God knew I’d need someone special on earth to get me through numerous bumps in life, and boy did He ever deliver. I honestly have never met anyone quite like my Mamaw Reagan that shows the unconditional love that she freely gives. Her compassion and the lengths that she goes to in order to help those in need are things that admire so incredibly much about her. She absolutely makes me want to be a better person. The example that she has shown me over the years is something that continues to amaze me and I honestly don’t know how she shoulders the responsibilities that she has taken upon herself.

But I know this…

I pray for her every single day that God continues to give her strength to keep being the amazing & loving wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and friend she is to so many people. I thank God every single day for that incredible woman. So many people have been blessed be in her presence….and today is her day. January 19 is the day that God blessed so many people with “Betty Jo”. I thank God for her….I thank God for today…and last but not least…

Mamaw Reagan….Happy Birthday. I love you.

Your Grandson,
Shane