My mother was born on May 7, 1913. She would have been 94 today. Happy Birthday Mom. We would have celebrated with a dinner in your honor. You would have elegantly strolled into our house, adorned in a fashionable outfit, complemented by a beautiful silk scarf. I can almost hear your words, enthusiastically announcing your arrival: “Hello Darling”. From that point forward, the house would be filled with your twinkling eyes, ever-present smile and vivacious personality. Prompted by your sincere interest, our recitation of the mundane events of the day would have inevitably lead to great intellectual discussions about politics, religion and social issues. Of course, there would be always be boatloads of laughter, as you loved to hear and to tell a good joke-even a raunchy one here and there.
Dinner might have been your traditional Chicken Paprikash or in all likelihood, I would have tried some new recipe. After all, I wanted to impress you with my recently acquired culinary skills. And of course, as any good lawyer would do, I also wanted to prove the point I made to you when I was 16- that I didn’t need to spend time in the kitchen with you because when it was necessary to cook for my family, I would learn how to do it! You probably brought your own Rehruecken for dessert as my baking skills still are nothing to write home about.
An old friend of yours called me today to reminisce about you and share some of the wonderful memories of your friendship. She has some serious health issues but she couldn’t let the day go by without giving you and your birthday the recognition that they still deserve.
Mom, I want to dedicate this post to you. Although not physically present, you and the example you have set serve as my beacon each day. Your generosity of spirit, strength, courageousness and compassion live on. We remember you-your grace, your beauty and your dignity. We remember you-wherever we are… but especially around the table.
Happy Birthday! My mom is born May, 7th 1928. What a coincidence
Posted by: Ulrike | May 08, 2007 at 09:19 AM
Happy Birthday!
My mother-in-law's 90th birthday is on 16 May and my Mom's 65th birthday is on the 17 May.
My grandfather's birthday would have been on 4 May. He would be 97.
Posted by: Michelle (a.k.a Baroness Tapuzina) | May 08, 2007 at 07:27 PM
Happy Birthday, Mrs. Leighton! You would be so proud of how your daughter lives out your legacy every day (and not just in the kitchen!)
Posted by: Christine (myplateoryours) | May 08, 2007 at 08:21 PM
You truly warmed my heart with this beautiful tribute to your mom. Thank you for keeping her spirit alive.
Posted by: Susan from Food "Blogga" | May 09, 2007 at 05:54 PM
I have to call my Mom.
Thanks for reminding me.
All my love to you & Ev.
Posted by: Paul "El Gigante" | May 15, 2007 at 09:07 PM