Thank you to Joyce at From This Side of the Pond for this weeks Hodgepodge questions.
1. Share something you appreciate (or something you appreciated as you were growing up) about your mother.
My mother died when I was only 18 and though I was young I was aware that she was a very strong and independent woman. Though, of course, she didn't know that I would be on my own at such a young age (my father died 4 months after my mom) I very much appreciate the example she set and the measure of self-sufficiency she instilled in me.
2. A quote most commonly ascribed to Plato reads "Necessity is the mother of invention." When did this last play out in your own experience?
After giving it some thought it seems that the necessity to come up with and answer to this question would require some invention on my part and that just wouldn't be Plato-worthy.
3. Share one of the earliest memories you have from childhood.
Big family gatherings on holidays. My mother came from a family with 8 children and our house was where they usually got together.
4. When did you last 'hit the mother lode'? What was it?
Well, I recently found a $10 bill in the pocket of a pair of pants I was getting ready to get rid of.
5. What is/was your favorite dish mom made? Do you make that dish for your family/friends now that you're all grown up?
My mom was a good cook....lots of southern style cooking, but I was a picky eater when I was small so I mostly remember things like peanut butter and jelly and grilled cheese sandwiches. Her birthday specialty was German chocolate cake. I haven't made one in a very long time.
6. Mother May I? was at one time a popular children's game. It required no equipment or parts to play. What was your favorite childhood game where you could just turn up and play-no gear needed?
For a time all the neighborhood kids played a game we called Knights and Ladies every evening. There was no gear needed but we did make our own capes out of sheets and swords out of cardboard.
7. Which TV mom (past or present) is your favorite, and why?
Roseanne.....I like the way the show dealt with real family issues.
8. Insert your own random thought here.
I think this is one of the best family pictures I have ever seen.
(Friends of my daughter-in-law)
Hi, Jeanie! This is a very interesting Q&A post. It must have been very tough for you to lose both parents while still a teenager, but it ultimately served you because it forced you to become a strong, independent, self-sufficient woman like your mother.
ReplyDeleteI have fond memories of large family gatherings like the one pictured here. They were characterized by continuous, often loud conversation, loads of laughter, good food and good vibrations.
How many decades has it been since kids played games that didn't require gear and relied entirely on imagination and communication skills? Too many!
That is an incredible family picture at the end of your post. There's a heck of a lot going on in that picture. A pro photographer could work all day trying to pose people in that manner and fail to capture that brilliant spontaneity.
Have a wonderful Wednesday, dear friend Jeanie!
My mother could do it. I don't care what was ask of her, she could and would do it. Cleaning, repairs, fancy dinners, picnics, games (she won them all), swimming, shooting, etc. And she could stare down the wildest child or adult and take them to their knees if they needed correcting.
ReplyDeleteI love this post, Jeanie. Your mother was lovely. Boy -- hard enough losing your mom at 25 (and having dad around for many more years). But to lose them both as a teen -- that really speaks to my heart. Moms make such an imprint -- I am more and more like my mom everyday in her outlook, my collecting and crafts -- and that's good with me! Love the photos and all the memories. How I smile as I read this.
ReplyDeleteOh I love the photo! That's awesome : ) I too have very happy memories of big family gatherings, and have definitely tried to recreate that with my own family. I cannot imagine losing both parents at such a young age. I'm sure that must have been an extremely hard time. I hope your family celebrates you in a special way on Mother's Day.
ReplyDeleteYea for #4!!
ReplyDeleteI found $10 in the bottom of the washer last week. I dried it out and now it's mine! Aren't we the lucky ones?!
That was sad, Jeanie, that both your parents died when you were so young. I knew your mom had, I didn't realize your dad died shortly after her. Way to go on finding the 10 dollars :) That was a big surprise I bet. Do you remember why you tucked it there in the first place? I too like that family picture; lots of love and blessings there!
ReplyDeletebetty
That's a great family picture (friends of your daughter-in-law). Funny.
ReplyDeleteI have a grandson who is such a very picky eater, but pb&j never fails.
Your mother sounds like a special lady.
Thank you for leaving such a nice comment on my page. Come back anytime.
I love that photo. :-) Those are the looks of love...
ReplyDeletePearl
Your Mom was a beauty, Jeanie - so sad that you lost her (and your Dad) so young. Have a great Mothers Day with your family!
ReplyDeleteMy mum wasn't a very good cook at all, but she did make an amazing mince stew!
ReplyDeleteShe could burn cabbage and peas amazingly too.
I also think that photo is awesome.
That's such a cute family photo. I just love it.
ReplyDeleteI was surprised to read about your parents dying when you were so young. That's too bad.
You're right... that last family picture is one of the best one I've ever seen, too. Priceless.
ReplyDeleteIt must have been rough to lose both of your parents at such a young age. I'm glad you had such a large extended family to help you through.
Happy Mothers' Day! I hope you have a wonderful weekend.