My mom died a year ago Sunday. I don’t want to write a long sad post about how much I miss her and how hard this last year has been. Anyone who has lost someone already knows the pain.
Instead of harping on the sadness, I want to honor her memory and share some life lessons she taught me through the years. Some of them are pretty lighthearted, others are issues that were truly close to her heart. Some of these lessons I am still trying to master.
My mom was one of those people with infinite patience and kindness for everyone. She led her life with such dignity and kindness and I don’t ever want to forgot everything she taught me. I hope writing things like this down can bring comfort in the years to come.
50 Life Lessons from My Mom
1. Be kind to mean people.
2. Two wrongs don’t make a right.
3. When in doubt, buy the new shoes.
4. Don’t cut down the tress, unless you absolutely have to.
5. Learn as much technology as you can at a young age.
6. Respect teachers and education.
7. Grammar and spelling never go out of style.
8. Splitting a Little Debbie package with an estranged friend can bring you back together.
9. Look extensively for college scholarship options and apply to all that you qualify for. You will be surprised at how many options are out there.
10. Always wear a new pair of shoes around the house before you wear them outside.
11. Standing by your morals and principles is never a bad decision.
12. Keep an emergency 20 dollars in your wallet.
13. Make time for your family.
14. It’s always better to overdress than underdress.
15. Put the receipt in your wallet, not in the bag.
16. Education is critical to your success.
17. The best books are inches thick.
18. Always have someone proofread your work before you “turn” it in.
19. Walking the mall is exercise.
20. Don’t skip meals.
21. Changing a baby boy requires two diapers.
22. Watch the morning news. (Seriously, she always did!)
23. Children are our future.
24. Match your shoes, belt and purse.
25. Be kind to your hair.
26. Don’t be afraid of hard work.
27. Take a second job if you have too.
28. Be humble about your accomplishments.
29. Don’t be in a hurry to grow up.
30. Lock your car doors as soon as you get in the car.
31. Find your car keys before you walk to your car.
32. If something seems too good to be true, it probably is.
33. Trust your gut instincts.
34. Keep a sweater in the car, even in the summer.
35. If you see something you really like in a store, go back in two weeks and it most likely will be on sale.
36. Girls can do math.
37. Call your Mom often.
38. Tell your loved ones how much they mean to you often.
39. Surround yourself with positive people.
40. Find a smart husband.
41. Good girlfriends are irreplaceable.
42. Elvis is STILL The King.
43. It's ok to not be good at everything. Know your strengths and focus on that.
44. Don’t cry over spilled milk. (Don’t sweat the small stuff)
45. Save money.
46. It’s ok to cut corners in the kitchen.
47. Don’t allow others to mistreat you.
48. Always be honest and truthful.
49. Think before you talk.
50. Trust God’s plan and look to him for guidance in prayer.
Susan says
Thank you for sharing your heart felt story. Even though they have passed, I always feel they are still with us.
Jane says
Julie, I cried when I read this, so touching. God bless.
JulieWunder says
Thanks Jane. God bless you too.
Jason Clark says
Julie, I know it's been a year, but I was so sad to hear about your loss. I know how difficult it is to lose a parent far too soon. You posted a wonderful tribute to her. She sounds like a wonderful woman and she raised a wonderful daughter. Take care.
Jason
JulieWunder says
Thanks Jason
Peggy Smith says
This touched my heart......and sure brought back memories of Mother's teachings!
Crystal says
What a beautiful list and a perfect example of how she will continue to live through you, Tommy, and all of us she influenced.
andrea says
Julie - I love this. I totally see her (and your) personality reflected in this post! ...I can't believe that it has been a year already. Miss you!
Rachael Wunder Evans says
I cannot believe it has been a year since your Mom has passed. So many wonderful memories of her, but one of my favorite was the first time she came to Grandma and Grandpa's house. Our dog Brandy licked a dish after dinner and I thought she was going to pass out. She had never had a dog before and was shocked. She came to love and accept the crazy Wunder's and we miss her dearly!
JulieWunder says
She loved you guys too!
Walter Wright says
I love this Julie =) and it sounds a lot like me ,and I sometime wunder why people say this is rare , I think its just as easy as planting a seed and growing a tree , I thank you mom for you ,because you also make me happy =)
Jim Christoffersen says
My wife, Flo, also lost her mother in August 2012. We both can relate to your loss.
Marie Gunter says
Great advice from a beautiful loving Mother to a VERY SWEET daughter. Thinking of you Julie
Cindy says
Beautiful!
Diana Johnson says
Julie,
I know how hard it is to lose your mom. I miss mine everyday. May God bless you!
Annette Pope says
Your mom was a very smart woman!!! Especially like "Elvis is still the King" and he is!!
Such beautiful words to like your life by.
Suzanne McKinney says
Julie, I have enjoyed all your posts from the Italy trip to your poor dogs health issues, but I have to say, I have enjoyed this one about your Mom most of all. She sounded like a fine person and a wonderful mother. I know you miss her, but at least you have all the great memories. You have such a wonderful way with words - God has blessed you with intelligence and a sweet personality - and you come across like ones best friend - whether we know each other or not. Keep your memories and keep sharing all this good stuff with us. Love and God bless you. Suzanne
JulieWunder says
Suzzane- Thank you so much! I really appreciate you reading my blog!
Dad says
Julie-I'm so happy that you listened and remember her valuable lessons.
Peggy Angel says
These are wonderful life lessons. Thanks for sharing!
joyce ogles says
Julie, your mom taught you well and you are an awesome lady...:)
JulieWunder says
She was so kind and sweet 🙂