I Remember Mama

This is how I remember my mother. She was always sewing something for someone. I would sit at her knee, watching her for hours, as she created her magic with her old Singer, a needle, and some thread. I own that old Singer now and feel her presence every time I use it.

This is also how I remember my mother. The year was 1989 and the occasion was my parents' 50th wedding anniversary. My Aunt Mamie hosted a Sunday morning brunch for a large party of family and friends at a very nice hotel in Chicago. Pictured is my mother Sara, me, and my sister Karen.

Since that wonderful day in 1989, a lot has changed. Our mother and our father are no longer with us -- she passed on in 1993 following open heart surgery and he died in 1994. My sister and I are both grandmothers and look forward to many happy years with our families. My sister and I don't get to see each other very much, but we have the pleasure of speaking to each other on a daily basis.

As we get together with our families this Sunday to celebrate Mother's Day, please know that I wish each and every one of my women family members and friends love and happiness. Please also remember the grandmothers, aunts, and cousins who are no longer with us.

While we honor all our mothers
with words of love and praise.
While we tell about their goodness
and their kind and loving ways.
We should also think of Grandma,
she's a mother too, you see....
For she mothered my dear mother
as my mother mothers me.
Author Unknown

Sam and Clara (my mother's parents), 1952

Rebecca (my husband's mother)

I wish I could say that this is how I remember my mother-in-law, but she disappeared with no trace in 1945. This is the only image we have of her as an adult. Rebecca, wherever you are, we wish you love and peace, and wish we could celebrate this Mother's Day with you in person.