I Simply Call Her "Mom" ~ Sunday Tippets, Ryan Style

Born in Glendale Memorial Hospital (CA.) in the late part of the Mesozoic era, comes the woman many of you know as the River Damsel. I simply call her mom. As well as being an "amazing" fisher (her self-title) she is an "amazing" mom (my title). The River Damsel is like a two sided coin. On one side, there is a fishing pole with flies, tippet, and falling down in the river. But on the other side, there is a woman who has cared for 4 children most of her life and is very good at doing it. Most of you know the side of fishing like the back of your hand, but I'm here to show you that this crazy fishing lady doesn't just live on the river!

    

Since the very beginning, she has been a strong and amazing woman. At my birth, I was 10 pounds 1 ounce and 23 inches long! That in itself shows her super courage and strength, considering that I am now 6'6" and 265 pounds! The first sport I ever participated in was skiing with my mom. It was a fun time with her, but eventually she knew that we'd both have more fun if she put me in a class to learn the right way, and she would do her double black diamonds. I have hung up my skis since then, but I did enjoy that time with her!

Her support in my athletics is second to none. I attribute all of my accomplishments in my sports to her. Even though she doesn't understand my sports, pay attention the whole time, or know how to get to them she always comes to my games. Back in the day when I couldn't drive, is where she would shine the brightest. Rushing home from work to get me to practice just so I could be on time! My life did flash before my eyes a few times....

Not everyone is able to say that they are a mother. I feel like it is an honor (and a burden depending on the children) to be one. I feel like I don't give her too much stress, which is good! No matter what anyone says, my mom is the best. She'd do anything for anyone especially me. Is she the greatest fisher in the world? Definitely not! She would be the first to tell you that! But, the greatest mother in the world? Definitely yes! One thing is for sure, I would not be able to survive without this woman. She is the greatest. Love you Mom! 

-Ryan Blankenship

Wow...When Ryan came up to me the other day and said that he wanted to write on my blog...well, I wondered what was up... I promised not to edit because he wanted to do this all on his own.  I think that he might have aspirations of being a writer someday!  We don't know how long on this earth we each have... Give all the hugs and kisses you can to those you love.   Appreciate the times you have together.  And be a best friend to your children to keep that communication open.  I am truly grateful for the little things in life that make up the big picture...  A blessed mother I am.   = )