Little Things, Big Love—Why You’re Making a Difference More than You Know

Written by Guest Contributor Holley Gerth.

She bows her head and thanks God for the birds outside the window. I think of little bluebirds formed from play-dough years ago.

She offers gratitude for the unusually warm weather, the wind in the trees. I think of a hundred barefoot days, green grass, picnics and play.

She whispers appreciation for beds to hold all of us, the blessing of being under one roof. I think of bedtime stories, covers tucked around me, kisses on my forehead.

She gives thanks for the little things.

She always has.

And as she does, I give thanks for her.

I think of how the little things are actually the big ones.

The moments and seconds that slip by when we hardly notice

turn out to be the jewels of life, the treasures we keep with us always.

And I think of you, too, a mama reading these words. What you’re doing makes a difference more than you know. Even when the days blur by, when things are busy, when you feel unsure of yourself—know that you are a giver of love, a bringer of joy, and you’re building a collection of memories that your children will keep forever.

The most important thing she’d learned through the years
was that there’s no way to be a perfect mother
and a million ways to be a good one.
—Jill Churchill

A million little gifts. That’s what my mother has given me. And they’ve added up to so much joy. That’s why as Christmas comes close, the gifts on my mind aren’t the ones under the tree. They’re the ones scattered through the years, offered in unexpected moments, spontaneous grace, daily kindness, given with sweet, sacrificial love.

My Mom celebrates her birthday today.

My Heavenly Father celebrates His Son’s birthday in a few days too.

Every good and perfect gift is from above,
coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights,
who does not change like shifting shadows.
James 1:17

I bow my head and thank God for LOVE, given, received, sent down, offered up, shared, treasured, passed on, remembered.

By the time I say “Amen” it seems Christmas has come to my heart again.

Guest Contributor Holley Gerth – cofounder of (in)courage, writer for DaySpring, author, counselor, chocolate lover, “y’all” user, wife of Mark, follower of Jesus, friend to YOU. Visit Heart to Heart with Holley.

268 Responses to Little Things, Big Love—Why You’re Making a Difference More than You Know
  1. Val Garner
    December 14, 2010 | 10:57 pm

    What a beautiful poem, thoughts and photo.
    Thanks for the reminder in this busy season that’s so easy to get off track.

  2. Genny
    December 15, 2010 | 12:03 am

    It’s so nice to have you here today, Holley. Thank you for sharing your beautiful heart and words with us, and thank you for the reminder to be thankful! I hope your mom has a wonderful birthday.

    Genny

  3. Mel's World with Melissa Mashburn
    December 15, 2010 | 7:27 am

    Such a sweet and beautiful reminder Holley! Thank you for sharing with us today! ~ Melissa

  4. Blessings Unlimited West Michigan
    December 15, 2010 | 8:46 am

    THANK YOU so much for this wonderful posting. I found it so uplifting that I re-posted and shared it with all the Moms I know. Happy Birthday to your Mom and to your Poppi. May this day be especially Blessed! With Love and Prayers, Crystal

  5. Reese
    December 15, 2010 | 9:17 am

    Happy-Happy birthday, dear Holley’s’ Mama! Thank you for sharing her with us, thank you for taking care of her, and thank you for giving wings to her words.

    hugs,
    Reese

  6. Joan Caruso
    December 15, 2010 | 9:38 am

    Love this Holley! Happy Birthday to your Mom!!

  7. Kimberly
    December 15, 2010 | 9:39 am

    Happy Birthday, Mom! Holley, I just found you today – what a day to discover your posts! A special day to celebrate birthdays for Mom and Poppi. I look forward to reading more from you.

  8. Bobbi Keefer
    December 15, 2010 | 10:09 am

    What an amazing daughter you have in Holley – what a gift you’ve given us in sharing your daughter with all of us. You’ve done an amazing job…I can only be so fortunate one day….Happy Blessed Birthday….

  9. Amy
    December 15, 2010 | 10:18 am

    Happy Birthday to Holley’s mom!
    What a beautiful tribute to your mom. I’m the mom of two young boys and it’s also my birthday this week (17th). This is a reminder of how I want my children to see/remember me. Someone talked about legacy recently. Your post sums up the legacy every mom wishes to leave – being remembered so fondly by a child. What a blessing you are to your mom today.

  10. Jennifer Cortez
    December 15, 2010 | 10:32 am

    Happy Birthday to your wonderful Mom.
    May God richly bless her and make his face to shine upon her always.

  11. Cindy
    December 15, 2010 | 10:33 am

    May I echo Reese’s words? They are great! Happy Birthday Holley’s mom and Poppi! God bless you all!

    Please pray for me, as I am struggling in my relationship with my 14 year old daughter. I am afraid I am not “building a collection” of very positive memories. There are good memories from some time back, but these days are very difficult. I pray for God to change me. He is sustaining me! Praise Him! Thank you for your prayers.

  12. DIANE
    December 15, 2010 | 10:33 am

    HAPPY BIRTHDAY, HOLLEY’S MOM!!

    • DIANE
      December 15, 2010 | 10:36 am

      wanted to wish Holley’s Mom a very happy birthday!

  13. Paulette
    December 15, 2010 | 10:34 am

    Holley,
    Thank you for your words of encouragement and the uplifing poem! You are such a blessing! God has blessed you with such a wonderful gift! Thank you for sharing it with us! Tell your mom I wish her a wonderful birthday!

  14. Linda Beedle
    December 15, 2010 | 10:34 am

    Happy Birthday MOM!! What a wonderful daughter you’ve raised! God Bless you!!

  15. Diane Stephan
    December 15, 2010 | 10:34 am

    Happy Birthday Mom!
    Hope it’s a wonderful year with many beautiful memories!
    You must be a great mom as you’ve done a wonderful job raising your daughter Holley. She is a blessing to so many.
    God Bless you!
    My mom passed on to be with the Lord 2 years ago and I sure miss her
    Mom’s are so important!
    Keep praying for your kids!

  16. tiffany
    December 15, 2010 | 10:34 am

    I so appreciate the reminder that there is no way to be a perfect mother, but a good one. I often get caught up in discouragement for things that I can look back on and feel I have failed. Thanks for the reminder that I have the opportunity to try again and be good at it. Your words inspire.

  17. wendy thomas
    December 15, 2010 | 10:34 am

    Happy Birthday Hollies mum.God Bless you.you share your birthday with my husband.You must be a good mum as Hollie has turned out so well!

  18. Nancy
    December 15, 2010 | 10:35 am

    your comments on your mom makes me lonely for my own, Bessie, who died 9 years ago and was a woman of faith. I led her to the Lord when she was 50 (I was a teenager) and she always said that her life began then. In her later years she kept me close to the Lord. Happy birthday to Holley’s mom and may you live a long and fruitful life!

  19. Janice Kesterson
    December 15, 2010 | 10:35 am

    Holley, You are such a blessing to me. I look forward to reading your devotions every day. They always seem to touch my heart. I loved today’s about your Mom. It brought tears to my eyes. My Mom has been gone for quite a few years now and I still miss her so much. I want to wish your Mom a very Happy Birthday! Cherish Her.. She is a very special gift from God…
    Merry Christmas.
    Janice

  20. Marilyn
    December 15, 2010 | 10:35 am

    Happy Birthday to Holley’s Mom! you are certainly blessed to have a daughter like Holley!

  21. Jean Burby
    December 15, 2010 | 10:39 am

    Happy Birthday! May God Bless you this coming year!

  22. Jean
    December 15, 2010 | 10:39 am

    Happy Birthday Hollie’s Mom! You are a treasure and your story blesses us all. I love and am helped by your daughter’s gracious words. Have a blessed day!

    Jean

  23. Queen Los
    December 15, 2010 | 10:40 am

    I needed to hear this today thank you for encouraging my heart!

  24. Debbie
    December 15, 2010 | 10:40 am

    Happy Birthday, “mom”.

    Wishing you a Wonderful day (just like YOU are)
    And wishing the rest of the year, is just like
    today. Do something FUN and do something YOU
    want to do – Just for YOU ! ! ! And thanks for
    sharing your life, through your love, actions,
    words and deeds, with your daughter, who in turn
    shares with us. Hugs !

  25. janet mcnabb
    December 15, 2010 | 10:40 am

    Happy Birthday to Holley’s Mom! May you have a wonderful day! Thank you for sharing your gift of writing with your daughter Holley. Thank you for sharing your gift with us. Peace and blessings to you in the coming year!

    Janet

  26. Alice Whitman
    December 15, 2010 | 10:40 am

    Happy Birthday to Holley’s Mom!
    Mom – What a blessing and a joy they are.
    In so many ways, in so many words.
    My mother’s celebrates her 85th birthday on Friday! I am blessed to celebrate with her.
    Birthday Blessings Today!

  27. Bea
    December 15, 2010 | 10:41 am

    Happy Birthday and blessings to you and your family!

  28. Caroline
    December 15, 2010 | 10:42 am

    Happy Birthday to you, Holly’s Mom! Thank-you for sharing, Holly…the hundreds of little moments that Moms share with us to point us to Jesus…priceless treasures.

  29. Crystal
    December 15, 2010 | 10:42 am

    Wishing a very happy birthday to your mom – a year full of joy, blessings, and love. Thank you for the reminder to make sure our moms know they are leaving a worthy legacy!

  30. Alice Whitman
    December 15, 2010 | 10:42 am

    Happy Birthday to Holley’s Mom!
    Mom’s- What a blessing and a joy they are.
    In so many ways, in so many words.
    My mother celebrates her 85th birthday on Friday! I am blessed to celebrate with her.
    Birthday Blessings Today!

  31. Julia Bathon
    December 15, 2010 | 10:43 am

    Have a great Birthday, Holley’s Mom! May your Mom be richly blessed all her days. Merry Christmas.

  32. Kimberley
    December 15, 2010 | 10:44 am

    Blessed is she………….. Proverbs 31

    Bless you Holly for an amazing mom, I too have an example of who God’s wants us all to be as woman. A woman after God’s own heart. My mother rises and settles everyday without complaint, just love and serving others effortlessly. Beautiful and strong………

  33. Diann
    December 15, 2010 | 10:44 am

    Happy Birthday Holley’s Mama. What a beautiful post. Enjoy her while you have her. My Mom went to be with the Lord years ago on Christmas Eve.

  34. Judy
    December 15, 2010 | 10:45 am

    Happy Birthday to Holley’s mom. What a blessing you have been to her. I hope my children feel the same way about me. As a mom, all’s you can do is love them and pray. The rest is up to God.

  35. Patty
    December 15, 2010 | 10:47 am

    What a true blessing to have a daughter in the faith. A Godly mom is a rich blessing. Many more years of happiness & health with your family surrounding you. Enjoy your the day He ordained your birth. Patty

  36. MIrjam
    December 15, 2010 | 10:49 am

    Dear Holley, congratulations with your mother! Isn’t it wonderfull to see how much time can do to relations with mothers and daughters? When we were teenagers we woulnd’t even think about listening to good advice, but when we became a mum ourselves we love to learn and hear from them how to manage some things! God made that very will, ins’t He?
    Have a great day with all your beloved ones!
    Love from Holland, Mirjam

  37. Kim
    December 15, 2010 | 10:49 am

    Happy Birthday! Your daughter is an inspiration to me! She knows just what to say (hmmm-God thing?) Thank you for her and for raising her to be the woman she is! I’m sure that you are an amazing blessing in her life! Praise God for you on this day!

  38. Bridget
    December 15, 2010 | 10:51 am

    So inspiring… So grateful that I still have my mother. I pray God blesses your mom beyond all measure on her birthday. Your poem has made me stop for a minute and think of all the wonderful memories I have of my mother instead of focusing on the bad. She did the best she could with us considering she had little training as her mother died when she was 12.

  39. Patricia
    December 15, 2010 | 10:52 am

    HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO YOUR MOM HOLLEY. HOPE SHE HAS A WONDERFUL DAY. MANY BLESSINGS TO YOU BOTH.

    • Patricia
      December 15, 2010 | 10:54 am

      GOD BLESS YOU!!!

  40. Corrine R
    December 15, 2010 | 10:52 am

    Holly,
    Please wish your mom happy b-day for us! What wonderful word pictures you painted – it brought back so many memories; I too have a mom who helped make little birds and other creatures out of play dough. 🙂
    Corrine R

  41. Kathy
    December 15, 2010 | 10:53 am

    Happy Birthday to Mom! What a great daughter you share with us!

  42. Terrie
    December 15, 2010 | 10:53 am

    Happy Birthday to Holley’s mom! You have raised an amazing daughter. She has blessed so many with her writing. May God richly bless you this day.

  43. Cheryl McDaniel
    December 15, 2010 | 10:54 am

    Happy Birthday to your mom Holley! What a blessing our mothers are, for without them we would not be here:-) God is good and may He bless you and your Mom as you recognize this special day!

  44. Laura L L
    December 15, 2010 | 10:55 am

    That’s for the beautiful reminder of all the wonderful blessings God has graced my life with. Your words encourage and lift my heart higher and my life is enriched. Thanks for being willing to give yourself away to the Savior and to us. May our Lord continue to pour love and blessings into your life as you pour out for Him, sister. 🙂

  45. Laura L L
    December 15, 2010 | 10:55 am

    Thanks! not that’s?

  46. Cari Reif
    December 15, 2010 | 10:56 am

    What a wonderful mother you have! Happy birthday to her on this special day! I pray God blesses her with love, laughter and special moments throughout her day and the year to come! As a mother who thrives on those special, stolen moments with loved ones, I know what a gift it is to be taught to enjoy them!

  47. Delores K.Thomas
    December 15, 2010 | 10:56 am

    You are truly blessed to have a daughter of the faith. I know it doesn’t happen by accident and blessed is the mother who lives a Godly life with her children. I am verbally affirming that my family will call me blessed and that my children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren will be saved and serve the Lord. Happy Birthday dear lady!

  48. Christina Baker
    December 15, 2010 | 10:57 am

    Happy Birthday Holley’s mom! Holley, you are such a blessing to me. Thank you for sharing your heart 🙂

  49. Laura L L
    December 15, 2010 | 10:57 am

    Happy Birthday Holley’s Mama! Enjoy your special day. You have a great daughter(I bet you know that)

  50. Lin
    December 15, 2010 | 10:57 am

    A wonderful tribute to a mother who has instilled such thankfulness and love within you.
    “Her children will rise up and bless her” Proverbs 31:28
    May I join Holley in wishing her mother a Happy and blessed birthday with many continued blessings all the days of her life!

  51. katherine
    December 15, 2010 | 10:58 am

    holley, i always think of your mom as my second mom while growing up. soo loving and soo sweet!! happy birthday mrs armstrong!!!

  52. Martha
    December 15, 2010 | 10:59 am

    Happy Birthday to an amazing mom. All moms are truly amazing and we sometimes forget how special we are to our family and esp to God’s family. Enjoy your special day and know that God views you as special everyday.

  53. dixie white
    December 15, 2010 | 11:03 am

    Oh Happy Day! May God’s Blessings Continue to Flow On You and Your Family! Happy B’Day To You!!!

  54. Robin Willis
    December 15, 2010 | 11:11 am

    Happy Birthday to you Holley’s mom. What a blessing she is to all of us.

  55. Dodi Beaver
    December 15, 2010 | 11:14 am

    Happy birthday to Holley’s mom!!! Blessings to you; your precious daughter makes a difference in so many worlds!

  56. cindy chase
    December 15, 2010 | 11:14 am

    Happy Blessed B-day Holley’s mom. God’s Blessings on many more
    I also want to thank you for raising your child Holley to
    be such a beautiful person in Christ. Have an awesome day and birthday

  57. laurie
    December 15, 2010 | 11:15 am

    so touching.:)

  58. Sam
    December 15, 2010 | 11:18 am

    Happy birthday to Holley’s mom! I love the bluebird picture – they are such sweet birds! Holley, what a true blessing to still have family!

  59. Lisa
    December 15, 2010 | 11:20 am

    Happy birthday, Holley’s Mom!!! You too must be very special to have raised a wonderful daughter like Holley! I’m sure you’re very proud of her as I can read how very thankful she is for you!!
    Many blessings to you on your special day!!!
    Thanks , Holley , for the wonderful thoughts that you always share to touch our hearts with God’s amazing love.

  60. Teri Crowder
    December 15, 2010 | 11:21 am

    GOD BLESS YOU HOLLEY’S MOM on the CELEBRATION
    of YOUR BIRTHDAY! ENJOY YOUR DAY!

    P.S. Words can’t express how HOLLEY has BLESSED
    me with her words of encouragement & love
    of our LORD!

  61. Anita
    December 15, 2010 | 11:24 am

    I am a mom of 4, yet I can look back with my own mom and it is the small things that mean the most. Thank you for the reminder. Happy Birthday to your mom & Poppi. What a great month to celebrate in.

  62. Jan Belzer
    December 15, 2010 | 11:25 am

    Happy Birthday Holley’s Mom. Your Daughter is a Blessing to us
    all. Your daughter brings Strangers together to become Sisters in Christ each day through Modern Technology. Holley’s Mom
    what a Blessed Teacher of the Healed Spirit you must be!!

    We hope our Mother’s Love is Worn Like a Winter Scarf around our Children’s Neck, Where ever they Walk they will know God’s
    Love and our Love, Where ever they walk,God’s Love will Guide them and Where ever they rest our Children will know God’s Love will Guard them, Merry Christmas Moms and Love to
    Holley’s Mom, Holley and all Godly Motherly Mentors,

    Jan Belzer Schaumburg,Illinois

  63. Marie
    December 15, 2010 | 11:25 am

    I love what you wrote, what a blessing! Have a happy birthday Holley’s Mom! God bless you!

  64. Caitlin
    December 15, 2010 | 11:29 am

    happy birthday, Holley’s mom! your posts are so heart-felt, Holley. i really enjoy reading them 🙂

  65. Lisa
    December 15, 2010 | 11:30 am

    What a wonderful testament to your wonderful relationship with your mother. My mother too was full of love and affection and taught me how to worship. Not perfect, but always devoted and loving the Lord. What a glorious gift He gives us in leaving us in the care of our mothers.
    .
    Happy Birthday Holley’s Mama, also, thank you for giving us the gift of her.

  66. Jack Millard
    December 15, 2010 | 11:31 am

    A grand HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO YOU AND YOURS may God bless you for eating that piece of pie each day.

  67. Shelley
    December 15, 2010 | 11:34 am

    Happy birthday to Holley’s mom! Your post reminds me of the famous saying, “God could not be everywhere. That’s why he created mothers.”

  68. Emily Pierce
    December 15, 2010 | 11:34 am

    Happy Birthday to your mom!

  69. Kim Gamble
    December 15, 2010 | 11:34 am

    Happy Birthday Holley’s Mom!! What a blessing!
    “The LORD bless you and keep you;

    25 The LORD make His face shine upon you,
    And be gracious to you;

    26 The LORD lift up His countenance upon you,
    And give you peace.”
    Numbers 6: 24-26 ♥

  70. K Peacham
    December 15, 2010 | 11:36 am

    Sometimes being a mum is the hardest thing – when they’re sick and all need you at once, day and night;when they tell you their worries and you pray with them; when they sit on your bed and say goodnight because you are so tired you have no energy left, only for prayers, hugs and kisses; through all their joys and celebrations, giving thanks to God with them; when their emotions are running high – and low…

    and still its the best thing in the world, knowing you are passing on love, faith and joy to your children, making happy memories for them and sharing in their lives. Please God, make me an inspiration to my dear children and give me all I need as my own mum did for me too.

  71. Lori
    December 15, 2010 | 11:38 am

    Wonderful words, for a happy birthday and any day when a mom needs encouragement. Thank you.

  72. Jan
    December 15, 2010 | 11:39 am

    Holly,i hope your mom is haveing a great birthday.After having had cancer,i have learned that every birthday should be celebrated.I hope she celebrates it.
    Jan

  73. Janell
    December 15, 2010 | 11:40 am

    Thanks for the wonderful post today and Happy Birthday to you mom!!

  74. Pam Mayer
    December 15, 2010 | 11:40 am

    Happy birthday to you, Holley’s Mom! Warm thoughts embrace me on a cold day here in Minnesota as I read your daughter’s words.

  75. Phyllis in Tennessee
    December 15, 2010 | 11:40 am

    God bless you on your special day! Is it not a tremendous blessing to see our children walk with God? AS a mom myself, whose children are now nearing middle age, it is my greatest joy to see them implementing the truths we planted in their hearts as children. I pray that the Lord will grant you many years to enjoy your family.

  76. ~Grace & Peace
    December 15, 2010 | 11:40 am

    What a wonderful tribute to a wonderful mother.
    Happy Birthday, Holley’s Mom!

    From one mom to another, the words your daughter wrote today is the greatest gift any Mom would love to read. It certainly warmed my heart! You reared a beautiful daughter, inside and out.

  77. Carol
    December 15, 2010 | 11:45 am

    Good Morning! and Happy Birthday to Hollys Mom
    As a mom who has made so many mistakes with her children….because I was so busy trying to be the “perfect mom” cleaning house etc…It has probably only been the last couple of years that I have laid all the busyness aside just to talk and spend time and do little things to show my children my love for them. I am now a grandma and refuse to make the same mistake of being too busy to make memories….I thank God for my family and thank God for you…and you kind words of encouragement…that thru it all perhaps I did make a difference in their lives. God Bless you

  78. Debbie Nance
    December 15, 2010 | 11:46 am

    Oh Miss Holley’s Mom – you must take such joy in your daughter! God bless you and keep you and give you peace on your birthday and in the year ahead!

    Love
    Deb

  79. Kit Raymond
    December 15, 2010 | 11:48 am

    As a mother of seven, I know that we often see ourselves through the successes and praises of our children. Even though God gives us our final value, He blesses us when “our children rise up and call us blessed.” Happy birthday!

  80. Rosemary Chapman
    December 15, 2010 | 11:50 am

    God bless all your family, especially your mom!

  81. Doriselle
    December 15, 2010 | 11:52 am

    HAPPY BIRTHDAY to Holley’s Mom may God bless you real good today and everyday! Have lots of ridiculous fun.

  82. Louann Fawcett
    December 15, 2010 | 11:54 am

    Dear Holley’s Mom, Happy Birthday to a truly blessed woman of God. What a special word Holley has shared with us today about her own mom in “5Mins of Faith”. They are words that I can identify with about my own mom, especially remembering the little things that really are the BIG things. Have a beautiful day with your family.

  83. Lucia
    December 15, 2010 | 11:57 am

    I think in this day and age, the high-calling that Mothers have goes unnoticed and unrecognized.
    A mother is able to change the world just by being there for her children.
    What a refreshing admonition to read about your mother! Your words through “Heart to Heart with Holly”, have helped encourage me so much!
    God bless!

  84. Sherrey Meyer
    December 15, 2010 | 12:03 pm

    Holley, you’ve nearly made me cry this morning reading first the devotional about your grandpa and now your mom! Of course, it’s just coincidence that their birthdays are the same day but it isn’t coincidence that they have someone so special honoring them. You were a gift to them from God, and I’m sure they feel as blessed as you do — what a beautiful family!

    Blessings and happy birthdays all around!

  85. Meredith
    December 15, 2010 | 12:09 pm

    Happy Birthday! May you have a very blessed birthday and many more!

  86. Diana
    December 15, 2010 | 12:11 pm

    Happy Birthday to your Mom, Holley! I thank her for bringing you into this world, and to you for sharing your gift with words. You have brought me much joy and comfort, and sometimes I share your emails with my Prayer Chain partners. Bless you, bless you, bless you!!

  87. Karen
    December 15, 2010 | 12:14 pm

    Happy birthday to Mom and Poppi! It would be cool to see a 3-generation pic! I love the thoughts about the million ways of being a great Mom – I have been ABUNDANTLY blessed with five children and 16 grandchildren + 4 greats! The love truly gets spread around in a million ways! My children honored me a few years ago with a “Her Children Rise Up and Call Her Blessed” party where each presented a reading on the ways I had impacted/blessed their life and then presented me with a gift representative of that blessing! I never knew I did so much!!! I truly believe I was called to be a Mother and a Grandmother, and God has shown me that over and over again! Blessings to all Mothers this very busy, yet joyful season as we give to others in celebration of the greatest gift ever given to us all – Smiles – Karen

  88. Bonnie Gray | FaithBarista
    December 15, 2010 | 12:16 pm

    Thank you for lifting our mommy hearts today and drawing it closer to our Heavenly Father’s too. Happy Birthday to your mommy! What wonderful gifts you’re celebrating from her, Holley!

  89. alison
    December 15, 2010 | 12:22 pm

    A very Happy and Blessed Birthday to your MOm & Poppi! What an inspiring story!
    Thanks also for our prayers for my husband! Merry Christmas to ou and your family!!!

  90. VERNESHIA WILLIAMS
    December 15, 2010 | 12:29 pm

    THIS MESSAGE WAS VERY BEAUTIFUL AND HEART-FELT. I AM ENCOURAGED BY IT BECAUSE WHEN LIFE IS GOING ON SOMETIMES IT JUST DOESN’T SEEM LIKE I’M DOING SUCH A GOOD JOB AS A MOTHER OR THAT I’M APPRECIATED. READING THIS IS A REMINDER TO STEP BACK AND LOOK AT THE LITTLE THINGS BECAUSE AFTER A WHILE, THEY DO ADD UP! THANKS HOLLEY!

  91. Mari
    December 15, 2010 | 12:30 pm

    Holley, thank you for sharing your mom with us. Happy birthday, Holley’s mom, and may the light of the Lord shine upon you and through you always.

  92. Linda
    December 15, 2010 | 12:31 pm

    HAPPY BIRTHDAY and many, many more. Thank you for raising Holley to be such a wonderful woman of Christ. You have truly blessed many. Many blessings on you!
    Linda

  93. Randi
    December 15, 2010 | 12:32 pm

    Happy Birthday Holley’s mom! God bless you and
    keep you safe in the center of His will.
    With a big hug
    Randi

  94. Tabita Manea
    December 15, 2010 | 12:37 pm

    Happy Birthday, Holley’s mom!!! May God give you His grace every day of your life, we depend on Him. You have been such a great exemple for your lovely doughter Holley, hugs, :*

  95. Valerie Johnson
    December 15, 2010 | 12:38 pm

    As a mother of 2 children and a daughter of a wonderful mother of faith, I found this writing to be such a joyous tribute to “the little things” that Moms do that leave memories for a lifetime..thank you for this!

  96. Georgia Carver
    December 15, 2010 | 12:40 pm

    Ohh my goodness Happy Birthday special Poppi!! Thankyou for giving us all Holley!!
    Hapy Birthday Mom and may you be blessed!
    For Poppi’s, Grampa’s who love so unconditionally and show there Love of people I thank you and my Grampa (step dad) who shared the very same Birthday I know the gift you are!!! Gone to be with our Lord our our special “Poppi” and I so miss sharing my Birthday (the 12th) with him…
    Lord Bless you all in your Celebration of Love God and God’s special ultimate gift of Life!!

  97. AJ
    December 15, 2010 | 12:40 pm

    Just wanted to wish you the best birthday.
    Because of you, your Godly influence on your daughter, so many lives are today touched, encouraged and changed. I’m sure the angels of the Lord are smiling down upon you.

  98. Georgia Carver
    December 15, 2010 | 12:48 pm

    Thank you so deeply Poppi for Holley and a special & Wonderful Happy Birthday to you!!!
    Happy Blessed Birthday Mom as well.. smiles
    I had a Poppi’/Grampa, there unconditional Love and Love of people is a special experience I have been blessed with as well; “Grampa” (step Dad) was the same, Also we shared his Birthday the same as your “Poppi”… and mine together (12th)…. It was Pineapple ice cream. Smiles and blessings on your family Holley!!!!

  99. susan sudhoff
    December 15, 2010 | 12:50 pm

    Happy Birthday!

  100. Lyn Armstrong
    December 15, 2010 | 12:54 pm

    Thank you to each of you who have sent such special birthday blessing my way!!!

    Lyn: very proud to be Holley’s mom

  101. Laura
    December 15, 2010 | 12:57 pm

    Happy Birthday! May God bless you more each day of this year and continue to shower you with joy, peace, good healthy and love. I’m so glad you brought Holley into the world…God uses her daily to share His love with us-her best friends in the whole wide web! 🙂

  102. Donna
    December 15, 2010 | 1:03 pm

    Birthday Wishes to Holley’s awesome mom……sending you a big birthday hug! Sometimes the little things really are the ones that matter most.

  103. Melanie A Leon
    December 15, 2010 | 1:03 pm

    Happy “Thank God for YOU” day Holley’s Mom!
    My left to be with the Lord when I was ten years old-25 years ago. But all I remember of her were the “little” things she did. They were and are HUGE in my memory. Like when she would clean and sing… And I would complain, she would talk to all our animals, and I do too now, she was the perfect homemaker, she DID EVERYTHING! made my clothes, baked my extravagant birthday cakes ( one year a piano, another, a ballerina stage), made candy and candy apples for the neighborhood kids for Halloween and oh so much more. MOthers are Great at little things that stay BIG IN THEIR DAUGHTERS’ LIVES! Happy Birthday

  104. Joyce Holley
    December 15, 2010 | 1:08 pm

    Happy Birthday to your Mom! Mother’s are so special! They fill your heart without even trying! God Bless! Love, Joyce Holley

  105. Char
    December 15, 2010 | 1:10 pm

    my best memory of my Mom, who went home to God in 1982, is from when i took my family to visit her. she would be sitting by the big picture window in the living room reading her Bible; when i would inquire about what she was doing, she would answer, “i’m cramming for finals.” the bracelet you’re giving away would have been the perfect one for her, as she was the first, but not only Proverbs 31 woman in my life.

  106. Darlene
    December 15, 2010 | 1:12 pm

    Happy Birthday to your Mom Holley! And to you, no wonder you are the faith filled inspiring person you are. Truly a testament of what kind of adults we become by the people who surround us. Apparently, you were surrounded by much love and many blessings. You have reaped the benefits of many.

  107. Carolynn Meyer
    December 15, 2010 | 1:12 pm

    Happy, Happy birthday Holley’s Mom! Hope it’s your very happiest one yet, with your loving family all around you, celebrating you, and the
    wonderful Mother, Wife, and friend that you have been down through the years. God’s beautiful blessings on this your special day!

  108. Jacqueline Haley
    December 15, 2010 | 1:14 pm

    It is truly apparent from the way your daughter speaks of you that you are a wonderful Mother.
    I wish all children were as fortunate as that.
    I wish you a very Happy Birthday, and a big hug for producing such a talented and lovely daughter.
    You taught her well about the love of Christ and she passes those lessons on to us. She is not afraid to express feelings we all have but are sometimes to afraid to admit.And she is great at giving us a spiritual boost, sometimes it’s uncanny that her words of the day apply to what’s happening in my life at the moment.
    May you enjoy many more birthdays and a very Merry Christmas and Happy New year.
    Jacqueline

  109. Susan Lenz
    December 15, 2010 | 1:18 pm

    Happy Birthday Mrs. Armstrong, to a wonderful mother and mentor. Holley is very blessed that God blessed her with such a wonderful family.

  110. Beth Werner Lee
    December 15, 2010 | 1:19 pm

    Happy Birthday Hollie’s Mom! Thank you for giving us Holley, she’s such a treasure to our hearts and a joy to God’s I’m sure. You did very well! God bless you today with rich joy.

    My birthday’s the 20th. Isn’t it great to have a December birthday?

  111. ImaFriendofGod
    December 15, 2010 | 1:27 pm

    Happy Birthday Holley’s Mom!

    Your heart must beam with joy when you read the words your daughter has penned. Have you realized you made her who she is today? Thank you for all the hearts you fill through Holley’s words. You’re reaching people and touching lives by instilling God’s Word and Love in her by example. I’m sure you have played a big role in Holley’s ministry.
    God Bless You!

  112. LaDonna
    December 15, 2010 | 1:28 pm

    I have someone special who shares this birthday, too. What a great day!

  113. JoAnn Melton
    December 15, 2010 | 1:30 pm

    Being a mom is one of the greatest gifts a woman can receive from God. Happy Birthday to you and be happy on your day!!!!

    Jo Ann Melton

  114. ImaFriendofGod
    December 15, 2010 | 1:30 pm

    Happy Birthday Holley’s Mom!

    Your heart must beam with joy when you read the words your daughter has penned. Have you realized you made her who she is today? Thank you for all the hearts you fill through Holley’s words. You’re reaching people and touching lives by instilling God’s Word and Love in her by example. I’m sure you have played a big role in Holley’s ministry.
    God Bless You!

  115. deb
    December 15, 2010 | 1:30 pm

    Hope your mom has a spectacular day…enjoy having her with you. Cherish every moment!

  116. Deb
    December 15, 2010 | 1:31 pm

    Mrs. A- what a wonderful mother you are to have given birth to and raised such a lovely, insightful, gifted and generous child as Holley.
    And how sweet of her to share you with us on your birthday! My mother was equally inspiring and I miss her deeply every day, and pray that a pinch of what she gave me I can share with my boys.
    Many Happy returns of the Day!

  117. Janna
    December 15, 2010 | 1:34 pm

    Happy Birthday to Holley’s mother!

  118. barbara steffensen
    December 15, 2010 | 1:36 pm

    Holly, what beautiful words– thanks for sharing… and to you Mom—- Happy Birthday to you! you are such a special person have mothered Holly…… enjoy your special day…. I’m sure you’ll find a million more things in it that you are appreciative of … the Lord never tires of our thank yous! Barb Steffensen

  119. Jodi
    December 15, 2010 | 1:36 pm

    HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO YOU!!!
    Dear Holley, Thank you for sharing about the little things that make the big difference and great memories in the life of a child. I have two little ones under 4 years old and appreciated all of the encouragement!! God bless you and your beautiful Mom!

  120. SylviaJoy
    December 15, 2010 | 1:37 pm

    Happy Birthday, Hollie’s Mother! I feel like I would really enjoy a cup of tea with you, the one who thanks God for the “small things”. Life is precious and you have one precious Hollie.

  121. Pat N Fl
    December 15, 2010 | 1:37 pm

    Holly, Happy Birthday to your Mother, mine turned 88 on the 5th of this month. I am so blessed to have her still with me and tresaure all the memories we havd made. Store up the memories with your mother and have a bleseed day with her and your grandfather.

  122. Mary Keiter
    December 15, 2010 | 1:41 pm

    Happy birthday to your mom… I’m sure it blesses her heart to have her daughter rise up and call her blessed….

  123. erica frausto
    December 15, 2010 | 1:52 pm

    Happy birthday to you Holley’s mom. Thank you for all your words of encouragement. God bless

  124. Oana
    December 15, 2010 | 1:54 pm

    Happy birthday, Hollie’s mum! You have been blessed with a daughter who loves to bless and comfort others with words!May you have a wonderful day tomorrow!

  125. Cynthia
    December 15, 2010 | 1:57 pm

    My dear mother in her older age now reflects on how she could have, should have been a “better mom”. What she doesn’t realise is she she was the perfect mom in an unperfect world. She was sweet, gentle, forgiving, ever-present, and all-encompassing of all that is good and full of love. Mom I love you for all the little things you have done and continue to do.

  126. Maria Figueroa
    December 15, 2010 | 2:01 pm

    Happy, happy birthday! You must be an awsome person because Holly is and she’s a reflection of you. Have a wonderful day!
    Maria

  127. Jeannie
    December 15, 2010 | 2:05 pm

    Happy Birthday!!
    My mother celebrates her birthday in Heaven but she’s always in my heart.
    Thank you Holley for sharing your Mom’s birthday with us and thank you too for all your inspiring words. I’ll be the apple didn’t fall far from the tree. Moms never stop inspiring us.

  128. Rynata
    December 15, 2010 | 2:07 pm

    Happy Birthday Holley’s mom, May God grant you His blessings in abundance. Your daughter’s spirit and talent as a write and encourager certainly reflect an upbringing in Christ, that could only have come from an example such as yourself. We take this time to thank you for being such a great example. Your works defnitely praise you, and we rise up and call you blessed…Thank you Father God for Holley’s mom!

  129. kat miller
    December 15, 2010 | 2:11 pm

    Today is my son Ben’s birthday. He’s 6. He’s named after his grandfather who was a minister for a great many years. I read your post about your grandfather and mother. I’m glad that Ben share the same birthday. I was not expecting to receive a gift for myself. The quote -no way to be a perfect mother but a million ways to be a good one- is something I should write out in big letters and paint on the wall of my home. Thanks for your inspiration and Happy Birthday to your mom and Poppi!

  130. Lyn
    December 15, 2010 | 2:12 pm

    Happy Birthday Holley’s mom. What a beautiful tribute Holley has written!

  131. Malgosia Colquhoun
    December 15, 2010 | 2:15 pm

    Dearest Friends, Take care and celebrate this wonderful Birthday. You are in my prayers and in my thoughts. Be blessed.

    Love and hugs,

    your Polish friend Malgosia :-))

  132. Debbie Bonnell
    December 15, 2010 | 2:27 pm

    Happy Birthday to Holley’s Mama!
    I love the word “mama”. I am from the south and that is where we say “mama” and we are not embarassed to say it even as adults!

    I look at “mamas” as Titus 2 women! And just what you have shared with us about your Mama, Holley, has encouraged me spiritually. She teaches others by example and words from the Holy Scriptures, how to live as a Proverbs 31 Woman, how to walk with Christ Jesus, how to sow the Love of Christ that grows and bears precious fruit for everyone not just self!
    To give thanks, is to sow His Seed!
    To give a kind Word is to annoint others with His Love that heals wounded hearts.
    To share your life is to share precious time that comforts in the lonely moments of life with memories that never fade.
    Thank you again for touching my life today, I feel wounds healing everytime I come to your sight.
    And Happy Birthday to you again Holley’s Mama! You were sent as a “gift from above” to many, including me! James 1:17

  133. Sherry
    December 15, 2010 | 2:28 pm

    I am thankful for all the memories of mom, she’s wirh Jesus now,but not a day goes by without thinking and thanking her for all the little things.

  134. Denise Burris
    December 15, 2010 | 2:28 pm

    Happy Birthday! You sound amazing! Your Daughter sure is!

  135. Valli
    December 15, 2010 | 2:29 pm

    A very special and blessed Happy Birthday to you … Holley’s mom … how truly awesome you must be for Holley to share this special day of yours with all of us and not keep it to herself!!! Birthdays are special, especially when you are a mom … I celebrate 2 … my biological birthday and my spiritual birthday … so that is my gift to you, if you haven’t done so … it is great fun to celebrate not only the day you were born, but the day you were born into Christ … Birthday and Christmas Blessings to you!!!

  136. G L
    December 15, 2010 | 2:31 pm

    A very Happy Birthday to you, Holley’s Mom. You’re right, Holley, mothers are a treasure even if we don’t think we are. I lost my Mom 5 years ago, and her birthday was in November. It makes me rejoice to know that she is in the arms of Jesus. I still remember her watching me walk to school, over 30 years ago, and I do the same for my children as they get on the bus. Have a blessed day, Holley’s Mom.

  137. Sherry
    December 15, 2010 | 2:33 pm

    I am thankful for the memories of mom, she’s with Jesus now, but not a day goes by without thinking and thanking mom for all the little things she taught me. She taught me To love Jesus with my whole heart and to let her go when the time came because she was going home to the Lord. I miss her so much.

  138. Coral Beth Rowley
    December 15, 2010 | 2:33 pm

    Just wishing you a happy birthday, Holley’s mom! Thanks for all you do. Truly, the children of a godly, sweet mom will always hold her in their hearts and it just leaves us all warm inside! (Thoughts of my mom still do, even though she’s been gone over over 9 years now.) Have a joyful birthday and days to follow!
    Coral Beth

  139. Sharon
    December 15, 2010 | 2:34 pm

    I left this message for Poppi and will leave it for your mother, as well. “Many happy returns on the day of your birth. Many seasons of joy to be given. And may the dear Father prepare you on earth, for a beautiful birthday in heaven.”

  140. Vicki
    December 15, 2010 | 2:35 pm

    Beautiful beautiful mother-words on a day that celebrates presence with presents. Blessed birthday!

  141. Hollie
    December 15, 2010 | 2:44 pm

    Happy Birthday Holley’s Mom! May God richly bless you this day and always, May His face shine upon you! May He wrap his arms around you and shower you with His love! Have a wonderfully blessed and Happy Birthday! You must have a beautiful warm and caring Heart, Holley shares her beautiful heart with all of us, many of who she doesn’t know, but she touches us in ways she will never know! Thank you God for these two beautiful women! Happy Happy Birthday to You Holley’s Mom!

  142. Susan
    December 15, 2010 | 2:51 pm

    Happy Birthday,

    How sweet of your daughter to share her inspiration and to allow us to share in the blessing and celebrate with you.
    May God continue to bless you and your family and provide you with many more birthdays to celebrate.

  143. Michele H.
    December 15, 2010 | 2:53 pm

    Happy Birthday!!!
    Today is my daughter’s birthday and believe it or not she sent ME a card thanking me and my husband for being a blessing to her!!!! It doesn’t get any better than that. Last week my son sent me an email thanking me for always making his time during his brief visits with us very special. What a blessing to have such wonderful children. Be Blessed 🙂

  144. Cyndy
    December 15, 2010 | 3:00 pm

    Thank you for your encouragement. My Mom is in Heaven with Jesus now. She was only 59 when she died. I took her forgranted for many years and would love to just hear her voice again.

  145. Lorenda
    December 15, 2010 | 3:03 pm

    And when you become a grandmother, the little things are the most fun! Sometimes I think being a mother was specifically to train me to be a grandmother. The special moments with my daughters have become magnified with my granddaughters! I see the smile in my daughters’ eyes as they watch their children in special moments with their mother… and I remember how much my love for my own mother grew during those same moments a generation before. It’s a beautiful, precious gift that we have…and it all starts with someone’s birthday.

  146. Gail Derreberry
    December 15, 2010 | 3:04 pm

    Dear Holley’s Mom, Your words to Holley must have been, and are, powerful. You have written on her heart and she shares the blessings in her written words. May you celebrate you on this special day!

  147. Lisa Anderson
    December 15, 2010 | 3:07 pm

    Happy Birthday to your Mom Holley! What a wonderful legacy to give your children.

    Thank you for your uplifting posts!

    Lisa Anderson
    Flat Rock, Michigan

  148. Michelle Basalto
    December 15, 2010 | 3:10 pm

    How awesome it is to celebrate our grandparents. My grandad passed away in June this year. We need to celebrate them and thank them for the legacy of love they leave us.

  149. adeola
    December 15, 2010 | 3:12 pm

    Happy Birthday, you are such a blessing. Truly it’s the little things in life that matter most.

  150. Catherine
    December 15, 2010 | 3:18 pm

    May the Lord keep your dear mother and Poppi and envelop them with the warmth of His tenderness.

    Thanks Holley for this posting as I’ve been feeling blurry in my motherhood, so many questions and not many answers yet. But to read how you’ve felt towards your mom’s little things etched in your heart, that made my day and lifted my soul, that it’s well and things will work out for good to them that love Him.

    Love and blessings in His Wonderful Name!

  151. Cathy
    December 15, 2010 | 3:30 pm

    Thank you Holley for bringing me to this wonderful, encouraging site! Happy Birthday to your mother and Poppi!

  152. Marianne S Jacobie
    December 15, 2010 | 3:30 pm

    Happy Birthday to your mother, Holley. She is so blessed to have such a talented daughter. Your words are a blessing.

    I haven’t seen my mother in some time being as it we live on different continents. But, I will see her next week and get to spend Christmas with her after 6 years. I am truly excited and so thankful for her.

  153. joyce
    December 15, 2010 | 3:32 pm

    Happy Birthday, Holley’s mom! God bless you for the sacrifices you made for your family – and your investment in their (and their families) future!

  154. Lynn
    December 15, 2010 | 3:35 pm

    Birthdays are blessings from God. For each one He gives us He helps us recall that He knew us from the start and has seen us through it all. Another new year to celebrate and to be held by the hand of the creator of all. May He continue to guide and protect you and bless you in your new year. *Happy Birthday*

  155. Vel
    December 15, 2010 | 3:35 pm

    Happy Birthday Holley’s Mom. Thank you for being such a good mother to Holly. You live what you learn so you must be a loving and wise woman. God send His special blessings to you this day.

  156. Carol
    December 15, 2010 | 3:46 pm

    Happy Birthday to you! Your edifying words and deeds of kindness speak of your relationship with Christ, and there’s no better way to know what He is like than to see a Christian mother in her home. “You know the story of the man who had a quick temper and had not time to go away and pray for help. His habit was to send up a little telegraph prayer, ‘”Thy sweetness, Lord!”, and sweetness came. Do you need courage? “Thy courage, Lord!”Patience? “Thy patience, Lord! “Love? “Thy love Lord!”A quiet mind? “Thy quietness, Lord!” Shall we all practice this swift and simple way of prayer more and more? If we do, our Very Present Help will not disappoint us. For Thou, Lord, hast never failed them that seek Thee.” –Amy Carmichael

  157. Linda
    December 15, 2010 | 3:47 pm

    God bless you on this your birthday Hollie’s mom. You have an amazing daughter who brightens my days with her words. So much of who she is comes from you ~ so thank you for being a blessing to my life as well. My mom is with Jesus & I miss her terribly. Her birthday would have been on Saturday (11th) so let me send my birthday hugs & kisses meant for her to you. Thanks Hollie’s mom. Happy Birthday.

  158. Carol
    December 15, 2010 | 3:48 pm

    Happy Birthday to you! Your edifying words and deeds of kindness speak of your relationship with Christ, and there’s no better way to know what He is like than to see a Christian mother in her home. ”Thy sweetness, Lord!”, and sweetness came. Do you need courage? “Thy courage,Lord!”Patience? “Thy patience, Lord! “Love? “Thy love Lord! ”A quiet mind? “Thy quietness, Lord!” Shall we all practice this swift and simple way of prayer more and more? If we do, our Very Present Help will not disappoint us. For Thou, Lord, hast never failed them that seek Thee.” –Amy Carmichael

  159. Carol
    December 15, 2010 | 3:50 pm

    Happy Birthday! Your edifying words and deeds of kindness speak of your relationship with Christ, much like Amy Carmichael’s who said: ”Thy sweetness, Lord!” “Thy courage,Lord!” “Thy patience, Lord!” “Thy love Lord!” “Thy quietness, Lord!” Our Very Present Help will not disappoint us. For Thou, Lord, hast never failed them that seek Thee.

  160. Carol
    December 15, 2010 | 3:52 pm

    Happy Birthday! Your edifying words and deeds of kindness speak of your relationship with Christ, much like Amy Carmichael’s. She once said: ”Thy sweetness, Lord!” “Thy courage,Lord!” “Thy patience, Lord!” “Thy love Lord!”

  161. Carol
    December 15, 2010 | 3:53 pm

    Happy Birthday! Your edifying words and deeds of love speak of your close walk with Christ, much like Amy Carmichael’s. She once said: ”Thy sweetness, Lord!” “Thy courage,Lord!” “Thy patience, Lord!” “Thy love Lord!”

  162. Carol
    December 15, 2010 | 3:53 pm

    Your edifying words and deeds of love speak of your close walk with Christ, much like Amy Carmichael’s. She once said: ”Thy sweetness, Lord!” “Thy courage,Lord!” “Thy patience, Lord!” “Thy love Lord!”

  163. Carol
    December 15, 2010 | 3:54 pm

    Your edifying words and deeds of love speak of your close walk with Christ, much like Amy Carmichael’s. She once said: ”Thy sweetness, Lord!” “Thy love Lord!”

  164. Pattycake
    December 15, 2010 | 3:56 pm

    Happy Birthday Holly’s MOM!!!

    It’s funny but when you become a mom your desires take a back seat and you take a back seat to different degrees. Some moan that but I count it a blessing to be somebody’s mom and it makes me APPRECIATE SO MUCH MORE how special my mom is to me because I understand what she gave up for me!!!!

  165. Cathie Hilton
    December 15, 2010 | 3:59 pm

    Blessings to your momma on her special day! The seeds she planted in you are blossoming if vibrant colors! Be Blessed on your Birthday!

  166. Eleanor
    December 15, 2010 | 4:08 pm

    Happy Birthday wishes to your wonderful Christian Mother Hollie, who leads by example. Give her an extra hug on this her special day. May God continue to bless her and use her.

  167. Debra
    December 15, 2010 | 4:25 pm

    Happy Birthday Holley’s Mom! May your day be blessed! What a legacy of faith!

  168. Kathy
    December 15, 2010 | 4:27 pm

    Happy Birthday Holley’s Mum! You can see what a wonderful mother you have been and are to Holley through her teachings and sharings. Thank you for doing such a great job! May you be blessed this birthday!

  169. Julie
    December 15, 2010 | 4:31 pm

    Happy birthday to Hollies mum!! May God bless you now and always!!! Have a wonderful day!! May you be blessed and loved as you have given love to your daughter and family!!! And as you have blessed!! x

  170. Lynn
    December 15, 2010 | 4:36 pm

    Happy Birthday, Holly’s Mom. I see you have created a wonderful daughter and servant of the Lord. What a wonderful legacy you have given her to follow. May your day be wonderful and your love be much.

  171. Annie
    December 15, 2010 | 4:47 pm

    Happy Birthday, Holly’s mom. What a job you have done to raise the encouragement Holly is to the rest of us!

    My mom’s birthday is the 20th but she is no longer here to sing Happy Birthday to or hug.

    I am glad I told her everything I wanted to while she was here.

    Don’t let those moments pass with the ones you love, especially your moms.

    Blessings,
    Annie

  172. Maureen Rogers
    December 15, 2010 | 4:49 pm

    Happy Birthday to Holley’s mother. She must be a wonderful Mom to have had such a wonderful daughter as Holley.

    Maureen

  173. Mame Johnston
    December 15, 2010 | 4:49 pm

    The gift of an ordinary day keeps resonating with me this week. It’s a title of a book I’m in search of and the message that your mom has spoken throughout her life. Being able to thank God for all the extraordinary ordinary things of life is a very positive and inspiring message for anyone who is near her. God bless her on this day of her birth!

  174. Angie Cramer
    December 15, 2010 | 4:52 pm

    Happy Birthday to your mom Holley. I would love to say I had such memories and that I were doing so well as a mother of four myself. Your story reminds me of the mother I want to be and am inside and encourages me to let her out more often, trusting the One who blessed me with the chance to be a mother and hopefully show them the way to Him.

  175. Shirley Wallace
    December 15, 2010 | 4:52 pm

    Happy Birthday Mom. Have a blessed day.

    • Shirley Wallace
      December 15, 2010 | 4:54 pm

      Happy Birthday hollie’s Mom. A great lady I am sure.

  176. Stacey Rogers
    December 15, 2010 | 4:56 pm

    Thank you so much for this wonderful perspective on mothers! It’s too easy at times to find fault with our parents (or anyone, for that matter), but you’ve done a beautiful job on focusing on what’s really important. Thank you, Holley! 🙂

  177. vicki
    December 15, 2010 | 5:11 pm

    Happy Birthday Holleys Mom! Sounds like you are a wonderful example for your daughter. Moms are certainly one of a kind and always thinking of others first. God Bless You on your special day and Thank-you for your daughter and her gift that she shares with us daily.

  178. anita smith
    December 15, 2010 | 5:12 pm

    I wish your Mom a Happy Birthday and for writing how I feel about my Mom. We had this discussion the other day. She wondered if she was a good mother when we were kids, I tolf her all the wonderful things she had done and still does for all of us!!! I am so thankful that God blessed me with her!!! I love her more then she knos and would be lost without her!!!!

  179. Carol Moss
    December 15, 2010 | 5:15 pm

    Happy Birthday to you! I’ve only been on Hollie’s email list for a few days but she has gently reminded me of the faithfulness of God. She has turned out well. Good job, Mom.

  180. joyce
    December 15, 2010 | 5:17 pm

    you are truly both blessed and a blessing mom.
    hope your day is wonderful

  181. Kathy Towle
    December 15, 2010 | 5:24 pm

    Happy birthday Hollie’s mom!! Thanks for walking in such a way that you “incouraged” Hollie to walk along. As a mom myself I know of NO greater joy than to see your children walking in the way of the Lord. Be blessed, not just this year but each year ~ may the addtl. birthday candles bring you MORE and MORE blessing:)

  182. Donna Darnill
    December 15, 2010 | 5:34 pm

    Heppy Birthday to Hollie’s Mum, I read Hollie’s uplifting words every day i am at work and they so help my day….thankyou for helping your daughter become the woman she is today – Mum’s are awesome i am glad God gave them to us! Be Blessed Donna

  183. Linda
    December 15, 2010 | 5:59 pm

    Happy birthday to your dear mother, Holley. How she has blessed those of us who read your words! Give her a big hug.

  184. Frances
    December 15, 2010 | 6:06 pm

    Holley, how blessed you are to celebrate the birthdays of your mother and grandfather so close to the birthday celebration of our Lord & Saviour. I understand the hurt you have of no children, YET; but I pray that God answers those prayers soon so the blessed legacy of your beloved family can be passed on to more generations. Dear one, have a blessed Christmas. With love & hugs to you all! Frances

  185. Jennifer Guadagno
    December 15, 2010 | 6:14 pm

    Dear Hollie; First I am blessed by your writings on your web site;now I am blessed by your writings on this web site! And I am am sure your Poppie and Mom feel blessed to have you in their lives,too! Happy Birthday to you both and may God continue to bless you both geenerously this year! J.G.

  186. Melanie
    December 15, 2010 | 6:28 pm

    Holley, You are truly Blessed with the Love of our Father. And the Love of you Poppi and Mom~

    NO WONDER you have so much love for us….We love you too, Melanie

  187. Rose in Ohio
    December 15, 2010 | 6:33 pm

    Holly, please pass along best birthday wishes to your mother from me, too. You, a truly devoted daughter, have written such a loving tribute to her here—I know her heart will be full when she reads it!

  188. Janice Lamb Bradshaw
    December 15, 2010 | 6:36 pm

    Happy Birthday to your mother. What would we do without our mother’s to love us, guide us, care for us…even when we do dumb things. I am blessed to have my mom still with me, I am 53, she is 88… I am still learning from her. May you and your mother have many more years together.

  189. Laurie Jones
    December 15, 2010 | 6:45 pm

    Being a mom is the joy of my life. I feel so humbled and blessed that God gave me a wonderful husband and 4 sweet children to love.

  190. Ann Schadler
    December 15, 2010 | 6:50 pm

    Happy Birthday–how wonderful on the same day.There are no coincidences.
    Blessings on your b-day, Love in Christ, Ann

  191. Bonnie
    December 15, 2010 | 6:55 pm

    Happy Birthday, Holley’s Mom! Here’s to celebrating you and the blessed gift of life in Holley! Holley, I had a surprise blessing 4 years ago with the birth of my son. We also have a 21 year old and 18 year old, so when I learned of this blessing, I was overwhelmed with guilt for not having a lot of joy in my heart to welcome this gift of life. I asked God “Why?” so many times as I wondered why He did not give this life to couples yearning for a child yet not able to become parents. I felt so guilty for being the recipient of this gift of life. However, it was through your writings and speaking engagements, in which I have been a guest, where I was able to break free of those guilt-ridden chains and depressed state of mind. My heart is continuing to become filled with so much joy and a renewed sense of purpose. Holley, you have actually been like a co-parent with me and my husband as we keep you and your spiritual wisdom and faithful example in our hearts, our words, and our actions as we care for our surprise blessing! Thank God for you, Holley, and thank God that you allow Him to use you! Through you, I am experiencing new life! “Unlimited Blessings” to you! 🙂

  192. Marianne
    December 15, 2010 | 6:59 pm

    Happy Birthday to Holly’s mom! May you have a wonderful day and many surprise blessings in the year to come.

    Because of Christ and praising the name of Jesus!

  193. Susan Priest
    December 15, 2010 | 6:59 pm

    Happy Birthday to Hollie’s mom. I enjoy her writings.

  194. Christina
    December 15, 2010 | 7:07 pm

    So true, sadly sometimes we only realise this after Mum has gone.

  195. Cathy
    December 15, 2010 | 7:08 pm

    Happy Birthday to Hollie’s mom.

  196. Cathy Cheung
    December 15, 2010 | 7:12 pm

    Happy birthday to Holley’s mom.

  197. Megan Samuels
    December 15, 2010 | 7:17 pm

    Holley, how blessed you are to have a mother who know/loves her Savior and has such a grateful heart! I feel I have had a beautiful glimpse into the family that made such a thoughtful, beauty seeking/drinking word girl!!! I hope you have a rich and blessed Christmas with your lovely family! May God bless you all!

  198. Nancy
    December 15, 2010 | 7:18 pm

    Happy Birthday to your Mom Hollie, you are all a blessing to us and I thank you for that.

  199. Bev
    December 15, 2010 | 7:34 pm

    Have a wonderful birthday – Holley’s Mom!! I talk to my Mom everyday. I am so grateful to her for her life and all she has given to me. God knew what He was doing in creating “Mom”.
    Thanks Holley for all you do to uplift me with your words from above. ~under God’s Grace

  200. Kristin
    December 15, 2010 | 7:40 pm

    Happy Birthday…and many more birthday blessings to you! Thanks for sharing your daughter and her words of encouragement with others.

  201. Kate
    December 15, 2010 | 7:55 pm

    Have a blessed birthday “Mom of Holley”.
    And since you are a December baby, I have to say,
    Merry Christmas too. May God surround you with His peace, comfort and Holy joy.

  202. Georgiana Robinson
    December 15, 2010 | 7:56 pm

    Because God wanted us to have memories of someone in the flesh He created mothers. They are truly a most precious gift and special in every way. God bless your mother on her special day and let her know how much she means to you. Happy birthday Holley’s mom, I know you must be special, because because you raised a special child in Holley, I love her writing. God Bless.

  203. ckcpurple
    December 15, 2010 | 8:18 pm

    Happy birthday, Hollie’s mom!! Thanks for raising such a wonderfully talented and caring woman!!!!

  204. Linda
    December 15, 2010 | 8:19 pm

    Happy Birthday. May your heart continue to swell with the blessings of the Lord. Have a blessed and joyous year!

  205. Patty Nolette
    December 15, 2010 | 8:19 pm

    Happy Birthday Poppie and Mom!! Wahta blessign to have both of them in your life ,before and now. Wishing them another year of joy and blesings and YOU dear Holley the very same… And a Merry Christmas!!

  206. Linda
    December 15, 2010 | 8:32 pm

    Happy Birthday, Holley’s mom!!! Enjoy your day!

  207. Elizabeth
    December 15, 2010 | 8:39 pm

    A very Happy Birthday to Holleys Mom!!! Mom, you’ve got to be SO PROUD of your daughter!!! She has such a precious gift of communicating her heart to people. What an AMAZING GOD GIVEN GIFT!!! Praise Him for blessing us with you and your daughter, Holley!! Happy Birthday, Mom!!!

  208. Denise
    December 15, 2010 | 8:47 pm

    Happy birthday to Hulley’s Mom! You did a great job! God bless you.

  209. Denise
    December 15, 2010 | 8:47 pm

    Happy birthday to Holley’s Mom! You did a great job! God bless you.

  210. Mary H.
    December 15, 2010 | 8:57 pm

    Happy Birthday, Holley’s Mom! I hope you have a wonderful day…filled with blessings! Your daughter, Holley, has provided such wonderful readings that have benefited me. As the saying goes, “The acorn doesn’t fall far from the tree…” Like Mother…like daughter.
    God bless you always.
    Mary

  211. Jan
    December 15, 2010 | 9:04 pm

    Happy Birthday Mom! Thank you for your gift of Holley to all of us! What a great encourager she is to so many! Thank you for your gift of love to your family and we celebrate YOU on your very special day. Blessings!

    • Jan
      December 15, 2010 | 9:07 pm

      Happy Birthday Holley’s mom! We are celebrating YOU on your special day and your gift of love to your family. Blessings! Prov.31

  212. Barbara
    December 15, 2010 | 9:12 pm

    That was so nicely written!I want to share it with my three daughters so they too, know they are doing a very valuable God-given gift.Motherhood is one of lifes treasures!

  213. Melinda Walker
    December 15, 2010 | 9:19 pm

    Thank you for sharing the wonderful memories
    of mother! Happy Birthday to your mother!

  214. Rev Deb
    December 15, 2010 | 9:33 pm

    What a blessing and inspiration you have been to your daughter and it shows through her giving spirit and love that pours from her heart. God Bless you on your birthday as you have been a blessing to so many others!

  215. Robin Most
    December 15, 2010 | 9:47 pm

    Holley-
    You are a blessing with your words! Happy Birthday to your sweet momma! I hope I am giving my two little ones gifts of special moments as well.
    Robin

  216. Ann
    December 15, 2010 | 9:48 pm

    Happy Birthday, Holley’s Mom!!!!!!!!!!!! Hoping for a year full of blessings.

  217. Sherri
    December 15, 2010 | 10:04 pm

    Happy Birthday! Enjoy your special day! May God bless you!

  218. chris
    December 15, 2010 | 10:07 pm

    Happy birthday Holly’s mom!!,

    I so appreciate Holly for giving her mom the love and devotion she obviously feels towards her mom.
    My mom is 75 and I so love spending time with her..espically I love her to sing in Italian..she has a beautiful , full and rich voice..perhaps a little more frail..but still beautiful to me.
    Everyone ..remember to bless your moms..she will not always be here and you will miss her beautiful voice when she’s gone.
    your children are obviously rising up and calling you blessed..I am too!!
    Happy Birthday..Holly’s mom :)))

  219. Millie
    December 15, 2010 | 10:28 pm

    And a big Happy Birthday to Holley’s Momma. Blessings to you and your family.

  220. Linda Connors
    December 15, 2010 | 10:34 pm

    Hi Holley……wow, two special birthdays on the same day. Happy Birthday to your Mother and again to Poppi ( I already posted a birthday wish for him) 🙂 I am blessed to still have my Mom and I thank God for her.

    Linda

  221. Betsy Mayette
    December 15, 2010 | 10:35 pm

    Happy birthday Holley’s mom! What a wonderful blessing you must be to Holley for her to write about you! I hope you have a wonderful day!

  222. Mary
    December 15, 2010 | 10:37 pm

    Happy, Happy Birthday, “Mom!”
    You must be very proud of Holly – she is such an inspiration!
    God bless you!

  223. Jan Lubbers
    December 15, 2010 | 10:43 pm

    Moms are really special. Mine is in an assisted care facility now, but I can enjoy spending special times with her many times in a week. We made cranberry sauce for Thanksgiving and cream cheese mints for Christmas. What special memories! I wish your Mom a very special birthday.

  224. Carmilla Malgren
    December 15, 2010 | 10:44 pm

    Happy Birthday! What blessing to be honored as a mother. Children are indeed a blessing from God to us, but mothers are to be a blessing to their family too — and it’s obvious you are. Holley speaks of you with obvious tender love.

  225. Sharon
    December 15, 2010 | 10:46 pm

    Wishing you a wonderful Birthday and many more to come.

  226. Beverly
    December 15, 2010 | 10:50 pm

    Happy birthday to Holley’s Mom. You had to be a wonderful Mom to have a girl like Holley

    • Kathy
      December 16, 2010 | 12:37 pm

      Happy Birthday to Holly’s mom and to my mom on the 15th also!
      Your writings are so uplifting

  227. Molly
    December 15, 2010 | 11:01 pm

    Happy Birthday to you, sweet Mom of Holley! May your day be filled with precious memories and a fresh filling of God’s love for you. Thank you for being a godly Mom whose influence has given us out here in ‘blogland’ Holley and her words of encouragement.

  228. Rita O'Toole
    December 15, 2010 | 11:07 pm

    Holly, I really needed to hear this all today..As a Mother of now, 5, with our combined families & Christmas approaching, all the hectic rearranging, etc. it’s just too easy to get lost in what’s really important!! Being a “Good” Mom is enough! And our children seem to think I am, so that’s enough for me, too!
    So glad you have such a special Mom..from what I read, she’s one of a kind!! I lost mine in 2005 but also had a Mom that opened her Bible every single day for as long as I can remember..Prayers included, of course!

  229. Dottie
    December 15, 2010 | 11:26 pm

    Holly, I have been blessed by the words the Lord has given you to share with all of us. Thank you for your faithfullness in doing His will. Blessings to your Mother and thanks be to God for another year of life He has given her. May she be blessed with many, many more!

    Merry Christmas to you and your family!

  230. Cherry
    December 15, 2010 | 11:27 pm

    Happy Birthday to your dear mother, Holley! You are blessed to have her … and she is blessed to have you!

  231. Lori
    December 15, 2010 | 11:36 pm

    Happy Birthday to you, Holley’s mom. I pray God’s richest blessings on you today and through the coming year.
    In Christ,
    Lori

  232. Crystal Theresa
    December 15, 2010 | 11:41 pm

    Happy birthday to your wonderful mama, Holly! I love both of the quotes you shared. They are so true, and it’s important for mothers to remember that children don’t need perfection, just a million little gifts to bless and carry us through.

  233. Maria Leelavathi
    December 15, 2010 | 11:47 pm

    God wanted to be everywhere, that’s why he gave us mothers… Blessed are you Holley dear for having your loving mother. A very happy Birthday to you dear mama!! God be praised and thanked for making you so good! May you live longer to make our world a wonderful one spreading the cheer that God gives you.

  234. sal Williams (from Sri Lanka)
    December 15, 2010 | 11:52 pm

    dearest Holley’s mum,

    warmest b’day wishes all the way from Sri Lanka in the Indian ocean! You’ve raised a lovely, caring, gifted and sensitve daughetr and it’s ceratinly a tribute to your life of faith lived out each day as you nurtured and guided her steps.
    Today may your sense God’s presence in a very meaningful way and be assured of my prayers for the year ahead.

    As a mum of two it’s certainly a joy to hear about mums like you who have and still do make a difference!

    God bless you.
    sal

  235. Claudia Curry
    December 16, 2010 | 12:08 am

    Happy Birhtday to your mother…..who blessed Holley with Godly wisdom and faith that will be passed down for generations to come….
    GOd Bless You!

  236. Roslaynda
    December 16, 2010 | 12:13 am

    Happy Birthday…..may you be blessed with many more!

  237. Caroline
    December 16, 2010 | 12:15 am

    Beautiful words, Holley (as always!). Happy Birthday to your momma!

    That Jill Churchill quote is fantastic.

  238. Lily
    December 16, 2010 | 12:23 am

    You are so blessed to hear your daughter Holley praise you like this. I look forward to reading more about you in her future devotions.

    Happy Birthday to you and many more to come.

  239. Teresa
    December 16, 2010 | 1:33 am

    Happy birthday, Holley’s mom! You are a treasure. The bond between a mother and daughter is so special. Although I lost my mom when I was in my early teens, I thank the Lord for the time I had with her. I thank God for the love, wisdom, lessons and fond memories she gave me. Holley’s mom – God bless you and keep you. Thank you for being a godly mother who raised a godly daughter. Enjoy your special day.

  240. Teresa
    December 16, 2010 | 1:40 am

    Happy birthday, Holley’s mom

  241. Pamela Selahvarzi
    December 16, 2010 | 2:59 am

    Hollie,

    I wish your mother a blessed birthday…

    P. Selahvarzi

  242. DOROTHY LAMONTAGNE
    December 16, 2010 | 4:22 am

    LOVE YOUR WEBSITE AND THANK YOU FROM THE BOTTOM OF MY HEART !! ALSO WANT TO WISH YOUR MOM A BLESSED BIRTHDAY !!!YOUR FRIEND IN CHRIST, DOROTHY

  243. faith
    December 16, 2010 | 4:28 am

    The inheritance that is so rich,so wonderful,so godly from a great mother to a great daughter.
    A blessed birthday to your mom,holley.The grateful heart of your mom translates into a very kind heart with yours.
    God Bless You

  244. Kendra
    December 16, 2010 | 5:30 am

    I always loved my mother but I don’t think I really understood her daily sacrifice and appreciated her until I became a mother. Happy Birthday to your Mom.

  245. Kay
    December 16, 2010 | 5:54 am

    Holly, you are so inspiring. Happy Birthday to your Mother. You two are so blessed to have each other.

  246. Mercedes
    December 16, 2010 | 7:01 am

    Happy birthday to you Holley’s Mama. Your daughter truly has called you blessed. You have done very well with Holley. Her writing has touched me in places beyond imagination. She has made a difference in my life. I am sure you know that you have a gifted and creative daughter, bask in that knowledge and stay blessed.

  247. Lori
    December 16, 2010 | 8:02 am

    Family Birthday Blessings!! WOW,to be able to share your birthday with your father is an amazing blessing. My birthday 12-21 is very special to me because I also get to share it with special people in my life: my twin sister and my mom/12-20. My mom, Mary had her first born,set of twin daughters,the day after her 21st birthday. Happy December Birthdays to All. THANK YOU for the joys you bring the warmth you share, and the blessing you are.

  248. Cecilia Myers-Agina
    December 16, 2010 | 8:24 am

    Happy Birthday Mommy (Holley’s Mum). May God grant you more years to come and renew your strength to do His will. My mother is still alive and she turned 75 years on March 4. She is a Christian and my prayers that all our Mothers will be a role model to all their children in Love, Faith and prayer. Happy birthday Mummy and May you live to see your children’s children. God bless you. Cecilia Myers-Agina

  249. Judy Hitson
    December 16, 2010 | 8:58 am

    Let’s celebrate your birthday all through the year. God’s glory, I see, through the fruit of your womb. Out of her mouth, her heart speaks. I see God through her and thank Him for you.
    Belated Happy Birthday Holley’s mother.

    Thank you Holley. I see Jesus in you.

  250. Joya
    December 16, 2010 | 9:28 am

    Many Happy Returns of the day to the proud and Blessed Mom and the sweetheartdaughter..

  251. Tracy
    December 16, 2010 | 9:45 am

    What beautiful words & so true. I will be sharing these with the sweet moms that I lead at our next MOPS meeting!

  252. Cristy
    December 16, 2010 | 9:48 am

    Happy Birthday, Mom!! May the blessings you have poured upon your family be returned to you ten-fold! 🙂

  253. Juliet Persaud
    December 16, 2010 | 12:50 pm

    Happy Birthday Mom!!! May the favor of God continue to rest upon you all the days of your lives….Lots of LOVE…!!!
    Juliet

  254. Carol
    December 16, 2010 | 4:13 pm

    Happy Birthday Hollie’s Mom? And Happy Birthday Hollie’s Dad! Today is our oldest son’s birthday as well:) It’s an honorable day! God Bless all those who open their Bible’s every day and pray for their families:)

  255. Cari
    December 16, 2010 | 4:40 pm

    Happy Birthday Mom!

  256. Barbara E. Krahn
    December 16, 2010 | 5:13 pm

    I love your writings and thoughts. Continue down this path guided as it is quite evident by our Lord.
    Happy Birthday to your mom Holli, it is so special to still have our moms and all the inspiring things they have shown and taught us.
    Many Blessings, Barbara E. Krahn

  257. Cathy Caylor
    December 16, 2010 | 6:12 pm

    HAPPY BIRTHDAY from one mother to another. I know you must be very proud to have a daughter who is touching the lives of many of us through her inspiring e-mails.
    Blessings
    Cathy Caylor

  258. Dee
    December 16, 2010 | 6:15 pm

    Happy Birthday! God Bless!

  259. Susan
    December 17, 2010 | 5:53 am

    Your words have brought tears to my eyes this morning (in a good way). Thank you for this precious reminder!

  260. corina emilia
    December 17, 2010 | 8:35 am

    just great this article! may the Lord help us all women to be the ones He wants!

  261. Brenda Hughes
    December 18, 2010 | 11:45 am

    Holly,

    your words always inspire me and always seem to come just when I need them!Thank you and thank GOD for all Mothers-everyday.Each child is truly a GIFT from GOD-

    My mom is 87 and I have been busy helping her decorate and buy and wrap presents, as she is still able to have a family get together for her children and grandchildren, great grandchildren, and this year a GREAT GREAT grandson, born nov 2, 2010! We will just have sandwiches and dessert that everyone brings, but she will make her special Pound cake-

    I thank GOD for her and all that she has taught me in my 67 years.

    Merry Christmas to you and your family. WE ARE TRULY BLESSED TO HAVE OUR MOTHERS, AND YOU YOUR POPPI!

    Brenda Hughes

  262. Rini
    December 21, 2010 | 4:41 am

    Oh my.. Praise God for moms! And Happy Birthday to urs 🙂 God bless!

  263. jeanne luther
    January 4, 2011 | 1:35 pm

    Happy Birthday Blessings to you…Mom.
    May your heart find much Rest in Our Savior in this New Year ahead. Its in Christ I serve.