3 A.M.

Sometimes I wake in the middle of the night and find myself turning things restlessly over in mind. Seeking comfort in the things that anchor us all I search for peace when I can find it.

Garden Love (and why)

I want to go on the record that I am a loving parent. I would never wish that I hadn't become a mother to my three (at least not lately). It's not all rainbows and unicorns as anyone dedicated to any endeavor will easily share. But I think all in all, for me, having kids has been a worthwhile pursuit (especially if you have the means to feed them, educate them, clothe them and shelter them from harm and have the emotional stamina to endure the often repetitive and maddening nuttiness of tending to their needs). If you don't have kids, then you probably either wanted them and couldn't or never felt the urge, and whatever events that transpired, it's all good to me. A woman is certainly more complicated than her ability to reproduce, and face it, parenthood is not for everyone.

So, I am in the later chapters in this journey of raising kids. Two of them are driving, one is almost done with college. It's not about making sure they drink their milk, or do their homework (although I can inquire- usually without ever ascertaining the exact truth) and many times when they leave the house it's not really clear what they are up to when they walk out the door. So, I am freer all the time to work, to contribute to the family's bottom line and pursue my destiny, sans folding tiny clothes and making sure they still fit in to their shoes.

Yet  I love a lot of things about home life, especially the garden and all the events that transpire out of doors. Watching flowers unfold and bloom is its own kind of magic. And while my children's changing bodies and faces are a mystery as well, observing them, except in very discreet ways is completely off limits. So, I embrace the garden. The flowers that "pose" at all times of day and share their beauty without complaining- something I appreciate more and more, knowing how fleeting life can be.

The things we liked in common (for Mom)

Leanne Shapton published a touching piece in the NYTimes today where she asked a group of women to talk about something they wear that used to be their mother’s. The article featured photos of the items and a short narrative text in each woman's words. 

The article made me remember a wonderful purse that I found years ago at a local thrift store and bought on the spot. Returning to my folks' house, I showed it proudly to my mother. She gave it a quick look and remarked dryly, "That's a bag I just donated to that shop. You know you bought something that was once mine." 

Yet she was secretly pleased that even in the context of anonymity, I was eager to own something that had once been her's.  She and I could clash on matters large and small, but in matters of taste, I am definitely my mother's daughter.

What this Mom wants

This time of year the media is overrun with nifty ideas of what to buy mom, or where to take her and whatever you do, don't forget to do this!  But really, what do most moms want on Mother's Day? I'd venture to say not another bauble, or overpriced meal, or flowers guaranteed to fade. I'd like to think that your typical mom wants to feel appreciated, cared for and loved. None of which requires anything greater than paying attention, showing affection, taking the time to help with life's many mundane obligations and sharing simple pleasures. 

Just like all the other days of the year when you think about it.

For Moms (with frosting)

A visit to The Artist Baker often means finding some special offerings for her devoted patrons to buy and the weekend before Mother's Day promised some delectable treats. And there in her pastry case I spotted cakes finished in buttercream ruffles of spring pastels. A perfect surprise for those among us who mother at home, at work or at large and guaranteed to be savored and enjoyed.