Thanks, Mom

It’s hard to believe that today marks 1 year since my Mom passed away. I vow not to be sad; rather I will celebrate the good things she taught me.

Mom hard at work in the 1970s

I am reminded that while one family is grieving, another is celebrating. The day my Mom passed away, my neighbor’s daughter was getting married. This is a fitting irony to recall, because all people will experience the extremes of joy and pain more than once in their lifetimes. My Mom was one of the best “celebraters” ever. She said, “Go to the parties and not wait for the funerals.”

Other great philosophies she left behind:

• Be responsible – If you say you are going to do something, do it! NO excuses.
• Work hard -  Mom never missed a day of work. She put all her energy into her work while there, and she got  lot of fulfillment out of it.
• Take care of what you own – Mom’s house, all that was in it, her car and everything else she owned were immaculate. When we sold her house, the new buyers could not believe the kitchen was 31 years old. Not a mark, scratch or speck of dirt to be found.
• Never buy more that you can afford – Mom was not a big shopper. She was a widow at age 36 with 3 kids and knew how to live a fruitful life without going into debt.
• Document special events - Mom took photo albums to the extreme, but she got a great deal of pleasure out of looking back at special times.

Mom with her babushka and her shift dress in the 1960s

• Stay organized – Mom’s files, bills and financial affairs were in impeccable order. Unless you have ever had to close out a loved ones accounts, like my sister and I have, you cannot imagine how important this is!
• Be a friend – Mom was loyal to her friends and was always there to lend a hand.
• Keep your freezer full - You never know when a visitor will show up at the door.
• Welcome all visitors – There’s always room for a visitor to spend the night or share a home cooked meal with you.
• See the world – If there’s an opportunity for a trip, by all means take it.

Mom crocheting in the 1960s

Thanks Mom. I’m off to work hard, just like you taught me . . .

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