Happy Birthday, Mom!





June 25, 2009




Today is my mother's 75th birthday. She's not here to celebrate the occasion with us, but I sang "Happy Birthday" to her this morning. I could feel her smile - I know she would be pleased that we remembered, and somehow I know that she is all right and reaping the rewards of an earthly life devoted to the love and kindness towards others that she rightly taught her children.




Mom's entire life was dedicated to helping those in need. Whether it was a hug, advice or a hot cooked meal that was needed, she was there to give unselfishly of herself to the betterment of others. She always marked a special occasion with a card. Sympathy cards, birthday cards, wedding cards, thinking of you cards - you name the occasion! We have lovingly joked that Hallmark stock must have dropped dramatically since her departure from this earth.




I miss Mom terribly, and as I sang "Happy Birthday" to her this morning, I selfishly asked her to show me a sign. I was watering my son's vegetable garden, and suggested that maybe she could send a hummingbird my way. After a few minutes, I forgot about the request and continued watering. After several hours, I returned home - no hummingbird nor any other incident that I could contribute to "a sign" until I opened my email.


Since joining Fine Art America in March, I have been anxiously awaiting the sale of my first print and it finally happened this morning with the sale of "Grand River Lighthouse". Was it the "sign" that I asked for? Maybe not, but I'm going to take it. She was always my biggest fan and I would like to think that she sees how hard I've been networking and trying to promote my artwork. At any rate, she would be happy to know that it made me feel good to think she had some part in my good fortune.


So here's to you, Mom. Happy 75th Birthday, and in my heart, many more.