Betty Jean McGregor Betty Jean McGregor was recently selected the 2009 National Mother of the Year by American Mothers, Inc.

The ideals of American Mothers, Inc.® (AMI) began in the heart and mind of Anna Reeves Jarvis as she sought to heal the hearts of families caught in the conflict of the Civil War. Organizing a day of love and friendship across battle lines, this simple observance grew into a national holiday known as Mother's Day.

American Mothers, Inc.® was organized as a division of the Golden Rule Foundation and was incorporated under the laws of the State of New York in 1950. On June 1, 1954, it became a completely independent organization, nonprofit and now tax-exempt. AMI is the official sponsor of Mother's Day. It embraces all faiths.

Betty Jean Ulmer McGregor graduated in 1951 from Columbia College and married Sam. They established their home in Hopkins.

Sam was called into military service in 1952, and their first child was born at Fort Benning. Returning to Hopkins after military service Betty became active in community, church,andschools. T h e couple was blessed with four additional children.

During the next 55 years they enjoyed children's activities, church, Clemson football, trips to beach, mountains, nation's capital and foreign countries.

They also faced major tragedies: farm fire where six lives were lost, critical illnesses, and droughts. Their faith and friends support made them an even stronger family.

They cared for Sam's father and Betty's mother in their home for four years. Their children blessed them with five spouses and eight grandchildren.

Betty has represented S.C. at state, national, and international conferences. Sam and Betty have been recipients of state and national awards. Betty's life exemplifies the true meaning of motherhood.

Betty's philosophy of Parenting

Children are a gift from God, and we are given an opportunity to help them develop to their full potential — mentally, physically, socially, morally.

Parenting means giving children roots and wings. Roots grow deep when parents demonstrate by example of a deep faith in Christ and love and respect for one another. Life is not about having no problems, rather it is about how we deal with them.

Families develop bonds when they eat together and share the days events, worship and play together, have family responsibilities, and take advantage of education opportunities.

Children need tasks in which they succeed, thus enabling them to feel positive about themselves. They need to learn early financial responsibility through the handling of allowances.

As parents we need to spend individual time with each child, to listen to their opinions and questions, to let them know how important they are. Each child should feel special.

Their wings are made strong when we encourage individual creativity and give them room to explore and develop their talents and interests. Above all, teach them by example to be compassionate, kind, and to respect the faith and culture of others.