Cassi Lockett named Mother of the Year
Cassi Lockett was named Mother at the Prairie League’s Mother-Daughter Tea held Sunday, April 6 at AFD Alley in Craigmont.
Following is the essay written by her daughter Kaylie Lockett, that earned her the award:
My mom has always been a rock in my life. She has supported and guided me through all the challenges of my life while still going through challenges of her own. I could not have asked for a better mom and I am so lucky to be loved and cared for by someone as amazing as her. When I think long and hard about my mom my senses are flooded with sweet memories and thoughts; sight, taste, smell, sound, and touch.
Sight- I see my mom curled up on the couch drinking morning coffee with my dad. I see her helping my little sister get ready for school. I see her putting everyone else's needs before her own without hesitating because that is the woman my mom is. Watching my mom has taught me more lessons than a person could teach. I hope to someday be as caring and kind as I see her act, and to show as much love as my mom can.
Taste- I can taste the home cooked meals she always makes for us. I taste the sweet frosting that she puts on the banana bars for my birthday every year. I can taste the love that she puts into everything she makes for us. Whether it's the fanciest thanksgiving meal she has made or a simple breakfast. I know that every time she makes something for us it's out of the goodness of her heart and shows how much she loves me and my family.
Smell- I smell candles burning, and clean laundry. I can smell what she is cooking for dinner. When she hugs me I smell vanilla and detergent. These smells comfort me and give me a sense of peace. I feel safe when I walk into the house and I can smell the fresh breeze flowing through the windows, the hints of lemon floor cleaner, and the warm aroma of vanilla and spices.
Sound- When I’m on my way out the door I hear “I love you”. And every night before I go to sleep again I am reminded of how much my mom loves me. I hear her singing while she cleans the house. I hear the stories of her childhood and what has sculpted her into the kind, loving woman she is. I can hear her reading stories to my little sister. I hear her comforting my grandpa as he lays in bed. The words my mother chooses to speak have had an astounding influence on my life. She knows exactly what to say to make me and everyone else feel like things will be ok. Her voice is a gift, someday I hope to have one as strong as hers.
Touch- I feel her arms wrap around me, rubbing small circles on my back. I feel her fingers twirling my hair. When we sit on the couch I can feel her foot slide over and rub the side of my leg. My mom shows her love through physical touch. And although sometimes I shrug away her hugs, they always make me feel better. A good hug can fix most problems and lucky for me I have an amazing mom who will never run out of  hugs to give.
Although I will have to move out in the coming months and start my own life I’m not scared. Because I have an amazing mother who will support me through everything, and always make sure I feel loved even when we are far apart. I could not have been blessed with a better mother and I will always be grateful for the life and family I have been given.
Kaylie