Dig in.
nourishing & unapologetic
It’s Valentine’s weekend! If you’ve read a few other posts, it’s apparent I’m a holiday fanatic. The decorations, the treats, a reason to indulge…I’m there! However, Valentine’s Day has never captured my heart as much. Funny, since I’m a pretty emotionally driven person. Though, let’s get it straight—I’m not hating on V-Day; it is a lovely day. (bahdum bum!) In honor of this love-filled weekend, I want to share with you a love story of a different kind: love of family, particularly the momma unit. You see, my mom, the Debmeister, Debbo, Debra (not her actual full name), celebrated a milestone this past Friday. She started a new job. No, we’re not celebrating because she started on Friday the 13th—a presumably unlucky day. We’re celebrating because she started a NEW JOB after 35 YEARS at her former employer. No, that’s not a typo. Thirty-five years at one business. Loyalty and then some, huh? This is a big step. A big risk for her. My family seriously, emphatically couldn’t be more proud!!! We’re behind her 110% and know she is going to thrive in her new position. I’ve featured my daddy-o on here before, but not my momma. She’s equally as impressive as my dad. You’ll see that soon enough. Though, in the spirit of full disclosure, as many know, my mom and I have had some notorious arguments (largely attributed to my sass mouth), but I realize I really lucked out in parent lottery. So, let’s delve in to why she rocks. One could say my mom has a hard luck story—huge family (like problematically big), the loss of her mom when she was not even into the double digits, and more. But for her shy side’s sake, I’ll stop there. The important part of her story is that she never let her circumstances define her. The determination that courses through her veins wouldn’t let that happen. She’s always done what she’s had to do to get by. She’s adapted to whatever life threw her. She’s worked in a leather factory, she’s been a welder, she holds her cosmetology license, and for the last three decades she’s worked in printing…Plus she's been parenting for like 2/3 of her life and a wife too. Multifaceted, yes, that could be the right word to describe her. But more importantly, she is probably one of the most sentimental, loyal, and giving people you’ll meet. She is creative, crafty, and resourceful. She isn’t a talker unless she’s comfortable, but when she’s in her zone, she’s funny and engaging. She is a prolific provider of unconditional love. When I was growing up, any whim I wanted to undertake, she’d support it. Any Halloween costume I dreamed up, she’d create it. Any meal I wanted, she’d cook it. You get my drift… It’s safe to say the Pope household generally turned on a dime for me (now don’t worry—I had boundaries—and my brother is still the golden child ;) ). Most girls eventually say that their mom is one of their best friends. In my little brain and heart, that doesn’t entirely compute. Okay, yes, she’s of course your (my) first and oldest friend and most trusted confidant. But to me, a mom is more than that; she’s a role model. She’s the balance in a way no best friend could possibly be. No labels needed, a mom is one of the best people to have in your corner no matter the situation. Now, that I’ve probably said enough to a) embarrass her, and b) make her cry (Dad get the tissues), I’ll sign off. Mom, I am overjoyed you took the chance to exercise your confidence. You are going to be an excellent asset to the new company. Know I am behind you just like you’ve always been for me. High five and a big hug! (And Nick says, ditto.)
Now, all of you, go give your mom (mother-in-law, aunt, mom-type figures) some extra love. Perhaps have a belated Galentine’s celebration?! Or if you’re mom is now your Guardian Angel, drag out a few photos and reflect on her legacy or go do something she loved to do. Until next time-- xoxo PS This is the second post without a recipe, so in honor of my mom’s favorite flavor, let me refer you one of the best coconut recipes I know of. You can thank me later. Coconut Cream Pie Bars: http://dough-puncher.blogspot.com/2011/06/coconut-cream-pie.html
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