7 Quick Takes About My Mom

~1~

Today is my mom's birthday. She has always been "Mom" to me but the kids call her Grammie.

~2~

This is probably my favorite picture of my mom and me. It was taken leaving the hospital when I was born. Car seats? This is 1974. We didn't need no stinkin' car seats!

~3~

My mom is one of those people who can get along with anybody even grumpy old spinster secretaries who snarl at everyone. If there is even the slightest chink in that wall of antisocial behavior, my mom will find a way in.

~4~

She makes the best strudel! Apple strudel! When I was little, I used to sit at the table and she would "accidentally" drop apple slices or raisins outside the dough and say, "Oh, I can't use those now!" Yeah... she's sneaky like that! ; )

~5~

My mom is the kind of Grammie who really loves playing with her grandchildren. I mean, she gets down on the floor to hide under the blanket with them or lets them dress her up for an afternoon tea. She also loves talking with them especially as they have gotten older about the things that they are interested in and always lets them know how special they each are to her.

~6~

My mom has a giant green thumb and is an honest-to-goodness, authentic farm girl. Proof. She grew up on a real, working farm with pet chickens and goats and turtles and puppies. Lots of puppies. If ever I wonder where Shortcake gets her love of animals from, I don't have to wonder long!

~7~

She is the baby of her family and the only one who could always get my grumpy grandpa to smile. She loved her parents tremendously. Still does, I know. Her devotion to honoring her mother and father is an inspiration. She taught me to treasure them, too and let me spend countless hours in their presence. For that, I am eternally grateful.

Love you, Mom! Happy Birthday!