Memories for Mother’s Day

Once a year, we celebrate mothers, and yesterday was that special day. I am sure you joined in the celebration with your mother, or celebrated the life of your mother if she is no longer with you on this plane. I believe every day should be celebrated in this fashion for the one who gave us birth and nurtured us daily. I no longer have the pleasure of daily conversations with my sweet mother, but I have tons of wonderful memories, as do you of your mom. Please indulge me in sharing a few of those memories.

One of my earliest memories was when I was three or four years of age. My mother was a fantastic seamstress and kept me in beautiful dresses that included smocking and trims of lace and ribbon. I remember loving to watch her sew. I would bring my toys and play in the room that she used for sewing, stopping at intervals to see the progress. I was always amazed at her skill in creating the ensembles she worked on. If she was sewing for me, I proudly tried on the dress, in pieces, as she finished sleeves, bodice or skirt. I vividly remember telling her “when you get little like me, and I get big like you, I will make you pretty things.” Sadly, I did not follow up on my promises, as I was never the quality of seamstress she was. I was too impatient and she was just too good.

I was also intrigued by her ability to cook. Her food was always really tasty. I do not remember there ever being a bad dish or meal. Coming from a large family, without a mother, from the age of twelve, she learned to cook as a way of helping out at home. I must say, all of her sisters were great cooks. You can imagine the wonderful spreads we had when the extended family got together for meals, with everyone contributing some scrumptious dishes. One of my favorite was something she would fix us as a treat, every now and again. It was homemade doughnut holes. They were sinful, they were so good. As much as I loved them, I was never able to duplicate them, and I must say, I am a good cook.

I will always remember my mother’s gardening skills. The garden was always tended by hands of wisdom, as she knew just what each plant needed. I spent many hours helping her gather her goods. Afterward, I loved to help her prepare them and, if the bounty was large, can them for future meals. While my memories were of enjoyment, when I was young, they were quite different when I got older. As an adult, I watched her preen and prune her garden with the same eyes of my youth.

I have so many awesome memories of an awesome, loving mother I thank the Lord for her, as she was and is, a true blessing in my life, from the day I was born and into infinity.