This is my mother. She left me when I was just 14 years old. I saw her a few times from teenage through the typical college years (although I didn’t have typical college years) and then she passed away before I married or had children. She was a wonderful woman that I know I would talk to her often if she were alive, but I really never got the chance.

The most current entries are things I would tell her and only her ... because they aren’t meant to be heard, just vented (if she were alive). The majority of this blog are letters she wrote to me (and a few to my sisters) during the years that we were apart.

Saturday, May 31, 1980

You are so Kind

Dear Mom,
You are so nice.  You take care of me when I feel bad.  You make me feel good.  You are warm and understanding and I am thankful you are my mother.
I love you when you think of me, because it makes me feel good.  I love you with all my love.
Here is a poem:

You are my mother
You are so kind
You've no other
And your heart is easy to find

Friday, May 30, 1980

May 30, 1980

Dear Betsy,

It was nice to get your letter this week.  It is good that your grades are so good.  I am proud of you.  Sandy is doing OK and seems bored.  Sounds like you are moving to Washington DC.  Your dad said you want to live with him and are happy.  I miss you very much.  You sound like you are sewing.  I am glad.  I never have time.  Sandy went out for supper for her birthday to Bill Knapp's and had fun.  She plans to buy a dress with her money.  I guess I will need to find an apartment if furniture is coming in July.  I bet you are sad to leave all your friends.  What will you do about Rainbows?  I am glad you will be closer to me.  Maybe I can see you soon and more often.  Have you become a good cook?

Aunt Ida bought an organ and is anxious to play it.  My thyroid tests came back low as I have to increase it some more.  We have a tornado watch in effect now.  It is humid.  Sandy cut the top of her hair so now I will have her hair cut short and get her a light permanent.  She had to start medicine for sinus drip in her throat .  It is hot and humid here.  My feet still bother me all the time.  I keep praying God will heal them.

Take care and write again soon.

Love,
Mommy

I LOVE YOU!!!

Monday, May 19, 1980

May 19, 1980

Dear Betsy,

It was nice to talk with you last week.  It seems so long since I saw you.  I do miss you.  I am proud of your school grades.  I am glad you are busy with Rainbows and keeping busy.  Did you enjoy Grandma Lingel?  I saw your cousin, Mark yesterday at McDonalds where he works.  He is a big boy.  He will be 17 in September.  Sandy worries about her yearbook.  Did you get it for her yet?  Her school ends June 6th so she has 3 weeks left.

I see a cardiovascular doctor on June 5th and take a lot of tests on May 27th.  My feet are miserable.  I can't drink any coffee and I miss my  little bit.  I read books a lot.  I'd like to get a job part time in nursing.  It is hard though to find one.

I hope you are well and eating and taking your medicine.  Do you remember to take it?

Remember I love you very much.  Please write me soon.  I never hear from you.  Are you babysitting much?  Sandy misses it.  Are you going to church?  Please write.

Love,
Mom