Thanks, Mom !

Mom and Me 1952

First of all, thank you for having me. I'm delighted to be in the world and thanks for taking part in my arrival.

Mom and her Dad

Thank you for telling me stories of your childhood, of the gratitude you had for the little things in life. Being raised on a farm in rural North Dakota in the 30's and 40's, you didn't have much. An orange in a paper sack was a God-given gift at Christmas, a Model A to drive to town in, going to school in a horse-drawn school bus in freezing cold weather, your job at the movie theater, a best friend to play with, innocence and dreams.

Mom and Me at Eagle Beach Alaska

Thank you for sticking with me for all these years. God knows we've had our differences... especially during my teenage years when you caught me sneaking out at night and other adventures including climbing the water tower in Washburn, North Dakota. What is most fun about that is sharing with you now all the things I got away with.

Mom and Spocky at Thanksgiving 2008

Thank you for teaching me about the things that are real and good in the world. Thank you for talking to me about God and spirituality and politics and people.

Mom posing in a Hummer at the Car Show 2009

Thank you for returning to Alaska after Dad died, to be closer to your children.

Mom and Me at the Public Market Juneau 2008

Thank you for the new adventures we can share together as adults (as grandmothers). Our drive back to Alaska, finding you a home, hours spent together at the Public Market, a day picking Nagoonberries in bear country (that would not be teddy bear country, mind you), shopping trips and walks, lunches and appointments, or just our daily chats and e-mails.

I hope you have a very special Mother's Day, for a very special Mother.

I love you! Vicki