The Farmer's Daughter

No, that title isn't a punch line, it's a description of my mom. Today is her birthday, and this post is a tribute to her.

My mom was raised a farmer's daughter in the mountains of PA. Life wasn't easy, but then neither was having three brothers, I imagine (knowing my uncles).

She became a grade school teacher, another job that required hard work for little pay. Perhaps this was preparing her for marriage to my dad? I kid! Trust me, my mother has The Sicilian all figured out. The first time he asked her to marry him she said no.

Through the years my mom has been a constant source of calm, a rock no matter what storms may come. She is a great cook, an intuitive decorator, quick to laugh, an unparalleled grandmother to my brother's kids, a superb MIL to Hotrod, the perfect foil for my dad and a wonderful friend. She's also my favorite shopping buddy (where do you think I learned it from?). Plus, she looks great for her age thanks to her dedicated workouts and healthy eating habits. (Actually, I'm hoping it's also great genes.) I cannot recall ever seeing my mother in "mom" jeans, but she's quite often found in bootleg yoga pants and an impressive selection of jewelry.

Happy birthday, Mom! You are a true original and a class act. I love you.