Planet Janet

My Mom will be turning 79 years old this September 5th.  But she doesn't look or act her age, and doesn't mind people knowing her age either.  That in and of itself is pretty remarkable - particularly in our family which isn't exactly known for its longevity.  But what is even more impressive is how active my Mom is for someone of a "certain age".  No, my mother is not a retiree sitting on the porch sipping tea.  Far from it!!!  She's still very hard at work every day.  She works two jobs every month.  She is a college professor who teaches computer science.  After raising us kids she started college, earned her PhD and began her teaching profession.  This is her "main" job - the one that requires the most from her.  She also works certain days for Wells-Fargo Bank as part of their "Silver Bullet" program.  She will also accept jobs grading papers online by assignment.  Besides all of this - until a few years ago - Mom ran a tiny vending machine business, and at holidays worked as a "Grandma" baking cookies for Cookies from Home.  Are you tired yet from hearing all of this?  Because I know it tuckers me out just listing everything!!!

But this birthday is the first one my Mother admits to "feeling" her age.  She doesn't have the time or energy to do all the things she'd like to.  She's cut down on some of her crafting ideas, which have always kept her busy when she's not "working".  She still makes quilts, and makes cloth purses and beautiful hair ornaments.  She works on those thing to relax.  Most moms sip wine while taking a bubblebath, BUT not my Mom!

She also does volunteer work for our church, and for International Rescue Committee (IRC), which is a wonderful organization.  She coordinates donations for them.  Mom has helped out here at the facility with me by donating bingo prizes and offering books to continue fleshing out our library here at North Mountain. 

My Mom has been likened by my friends to the Energizer Bunny (and sometimes to me as E.B. Junior!)  I don't buy it, but we do both read during TV commercial breaks.  Anyway, my point is for someone who is finally feeling her age I don't think she realizes how terrific she really is.  I think most people would love to have half her energy and lust for life!!  She feels like she's going a little soft, but she is actually still very, very tough and determined.  I used to refer to my mother as "Atilla the Mom" because she was a hard act to emulate.  Mom did have, and still does have, time to do all of the required Mom skill-set - - cooking, cleaning, laundry, kiss boo-boo, make the donuts!!  OK well, maybe donuts aren't a mom "thing"!!

Anyway, Mom, I love  you dearly and wish you all of the best ALWAYS,  and love you to death and beyond.  I hope you have the Happiest Birthday. 

Don't you think it's kind of ironic that Mom's birthday is so close to Labor Day??  HMM??  I think it is extremely fitting!!  Love you, Mom!!!

Love Always,
Your Devoted Daughter Darci, and sort-of-son-in-law, Steve

Have fun with the Little Widow Ladies Club Vacation (Ha!).  Seriously you and Peg have a wonderful time.!!