When I take a hot bath.
When I read a romance novel.
When I paint my toenails Revlon’s “Wine with Everything.”
When I’m on the deck at the beach.
When I have a glass of prosecco (which she always pronounced more like “pro-CHECK-ah”).
When I decorate for Christmas.
When I make her mother’s ice-box rolls.
When I wear her pleather pants, which always used to embarrass me in middle school.
When I hear beach music (and want to shag).
When I play bridge.
On her birthday (when it always snows or ices over).
On my birthday.
When I see a poodle.
When I see a Mercedes.
When I’m sunbathing.
When I run in the Free to Breathe 5k next week in support of lung cancer research, and when I run the Blue Talon Bistro Turkey Trot in Williamsburg over Thanksgiving (mom walked it a couple of years ago and had a great time!).
When it’s Thanksgiving and I go shopping on Black Friday at the outlets.
When it’s any holiday, really.
When I say the word pecan (“pee-can,” of course) and whenever anyone pronounces “salmon” with the L.
When I smell Shalimar perfume.
When I look up at the poster mom had made for me before I went into the Peace Corps. She wrote, near our picture, “Honey, may you always think of me with a smile on your face and in your heart–I’ll love you forever and beyond.”
When it’s daytime.
When it’s nighttime.
All the time. I will think of my mother all the time. And I will always miss her terribly.
That was so beautiful. Hugs!
Your mother will be missed by all she has meet. I remember her at your peace corps going away party, being the best hostess. The look in her eyes that night was the look of love.
Allison,
I had only known your mom for about 10 years. Your dad for longer. (Yes, I’m also an IBMer). Your mom was an amazing woman. I enjoyed working with her more than nearly anyone I have worked with over my 30+ years. I miss her as well and I wanted to thank you for your posts.