Dear Mama,

Today is your birthday. I wish I could come by and visit, but there are so many miles between us. I sent you flowers and a copy of my book along with family pictures of your grandchildren and greatgrands, the farm, and our pets. You seem to enjoy seeing our life.

This summer is slowly creeping toward fall. Before we know it the leaves will be cascading down and the days will be shorter and the nights cooler. What have I accomplished this summer that I could brag to you about?

Last night I finished sewing curtains for my back room and I remembered how I struggled to learn to sew.  You taught me the basics and then through trial and many errors I learned. I have sewn curtains, clothing, tablecloths, even cloth dolls with yarn braids. Still, I am not a master of the threads and cloths like you are.

I canned tomatoes and applesauce and put up food for winter in my pantry and my freezer. How many rows of jars lined the shelves of your pantry when I was a child! There were plums and peaches, apples, pears, beans, corn, tomatoes, jellies, meats, and soups. How industrious you have been. I want to be like you.

I entertained this summer– cooked and served and even carried meals for friends, family and strangers. I stirred up cakes and cobblers and I fried chicken and made gravy. All these skills I gained from you who gave me my first cookbook and first apron.You taught me by example how to be hospitable. Many people ate at my table this summer as I remember folks praying, eating, and socializing around yours.

I read books this summer. The love of books is another proof of your touch in my life. I listened to music, watched birds, arranged wildflowers in vases and took photographs of them. You taught me to love reading, music, the glories of God’s creation, laughter and work. You taught me my need for family, friends, and faith. You taught me to face realities in life and to be brave.

What a great mother you have been to me! Happy Birthday!

Love You, Elece