I grew up with the best mother any child could ask for. She was an exceptional human being who lost her battle with heart disease way too young. My mom taught me many things in the short time I had her in my life. She was deeply spiritual, compassionate, warm, loving, loyal and proud of each of her five children and seven grandchildren. She was happiest being a wonderful mom and grandmother spending time with her family. I carry that trait with me to this day.

My mom was involved with many community organizations. She selflessly gave hours of her time volunteering at church and working on projects that would benefit others. She always taught me that there were others less fortunate than us and we had an obligation to help. I saw this by her example and I am forever grateful to her.

Knitting

My mom loved knitting! I remember her knitting all the time. She seemed to especially enjoy knitting slippers. I have fond memories of my sister and I traveling door to door in our urban neighborhood taking orders for mom’s wonderful slippers. True to her nature of caring for others she thought patients staying in the hospital might benefit from her comfy slippers so she decided to sell them in the gift shops of several community hospitals. I never thought of my mom as an entrepreneur but I guess she was.

Recently I discovered that I too love knitting and it makes me feel close to my mom.  It’s meditative, relaxing and extremely satisfying to create a product that is useful and practical. While I enjoy knitting scarves, afghans, shawls and a few sweaters, I truly find knitting dishcloths and washcloths quite satisfying. When I took my first knitting class as a new retiree I found out that I knit using the continental style of knitting; something my mom taught me at a young age.

Sewing

My mom enjoyed sewing too. She made most of our clothes by hand. I didn’t appreciate her skills as a seamstress because I always longed for “store bought” clothes that the lucky classmates of mine wore everyday. I remember my friend being jealous of my handmade clothes.

Once I was fortunate to become a grandma I wanted to create something practical for my granddaughter and her parents. So I started sewing burp cloths that are extremely soft and absorbent. My son and his wife kept asking for more until they finally ended up with a dozen burpees. It’s so fun to choose the fabric and create something truly cuddly and useful. I’ve received rave reviews from new moms and grandparents too!