
On this day of Mumsie's birthday--I was remembering back over the years. Growing up, I did not realize the treasure she truly is. It took becoming an adult with children of my own before I understood her beauty and value.
Some of the happiest years of my life were when my family and I lived in Grammie's basement, next door to Dad and Mom. My husband made an office in the back of my parents home, and our two eldest children went to the school I attended as a child. It was a lovely two years. The children played in the canyons and fields where I played as a child. They found snakes beneath old boards. They made forts in the fruit trees. They loved the ponds with their flirty fish and numerous frogs.
Best of all, I got to spend every morning walking with my Mother. We shared daily quiet times, our hurts, joys and dreams. We laughed, prayed and cried together. What a wonderful time that was.
Mums is interesting and a LOT of fun. Her laughter is raucous, and unmistakable. I LOVE to hear her laugh. She is earthy, wise, compassionate and a little wacky. I treasure her insights. I enjoy hearing about her childhood. I deeply admire her ability to paint a story in words.
Though she has faced (and still faces) tremendous and terrible struggles, Mom rises above them with a beauty not often seen in this day and age.
When I was a little girl, Mumsie showed me the whimsical faces worn by pansies. Since then, I've always loved them.
So, here's a basket of happy pansies for my wonderful, wise, whimsical and wacky Mumsie! Happy Birthday Mums!