Things about my mom

Today is Mother's Day. My mother died four years ago. She's had a long life. Like most lives, some of it was good, some was exceptional and some of it was troubled. But today, I'm remembering the good and exceptional things about her.

I remember her intellect and how she had a keen interest in so many things. She was the one who encouraged me to pursue science. She was the one who taught me that learning is a life long pursuit.

I remember her handwriting. She had a beautiful script. It stayed the same in all her letters with the spelling and grammar meticulous.

I remember her sense of humor. She appreciated a good laugh and was mischievous in a way that few knew about.

I remember her love of flowers. She knew all the shrubs and trees and taught me to appreciate the iris in the spring, the roses of summer, the maples in fall, and the hollies in winter.

I remember the stories that she told to me. She brought the past to life in a way that was comforting. She told me about ancestors in a way that made them real to me.

I remember her spunk. She was a small woman that my father and I towered above. Yet, she could stand her ground in a regal way that made her seem very tall. She had presence and charm.

I remember her love of me. She laughed with me, she listened to me, she encouraged me, she stood by me, and she taught me.

Thanks Mother for all of it.