Memories of My Mother

Let me start by saying I have the most wonderful mother in the whole world. I can only hope my children have the same relationship with me as I continue to share with my mother. Over the years she has been a role model, confidant, friend and spiritual counselor. I cherish her for many reasons but on this day I cherish most the mother she molded ME to be.

In nearly every room of my home there are memories of my mother. From vacation mementoes, pictures, antiques or books, journals and cards. I collected a few items from our trips abroad and displayed them below. I think each one of these conjours up wonderful feelings of the times spent together on these vacations. From picking out the porcelain doll in Oberamergau Germany, the carved plate from Switzerland or the Buddah mom and I discoverd together :>

My journals are now a habit that was formed by my mother's example and started when I was 16 years old. I have several volumes and even my own children have one they want to write in. It's amazing to re-read some from when I was first married. I'll read things that I would have never been able to remember, details, dates and feelings that are preserved in these precious books.

Cannon Beach holds a place in every one of the Skeen girls hearts. Mom and dad bought the most quaint cottage there right before Todd and I wed....ahhh, those were the days. I miss it terribly, but we had a good run while it lasted. This is the only coastal destination we take our family to. These traditions started when I was still in highschool and I have carried them over to my own family. I remember the long walks from the cottage into town for waffle cones and jelly beans at Bruces....hikes at Ecola Park, bike rides around Nehalem Bay and who could forget the crabbing and the screams. But the one on one times with my mother in our cozy cottage, and walks through town....it almost hurts to recall.

Although my dad has been the primary force behind any running and cycling strongholds in my life, my mother has supported me just as much. Last year she gave me this gift. It sums up my love for running perfectly.

Having grown up in a family of four little girls my mother always had us in dresses and curls. I was so happy to be able to have the same fun with my own daughters. Raggy ringies shall live on.....although they are quite snarly....just ask Kennedy!

But the end result is as darling as can be! My mother knows the art of making you feel special by making a normal holiday magical!!! From gorgeous table settings, to party favors and games. My children love when we have "parties" and it's amazing what the smallest extra gesture can do to make them feel special. Even today my mother shares these ideas with anyone she can. Aren't all girls supposed to feel like princesses?

Speaking of Princess...The Barbie birthday cake. Now that was a cake that made a barbie lover like myself go nuts!! Mom, help me make one for my girls :>

Even admist all the complaining she continued to enroll us in lessons. Jazz, ballet, tap, piano, violin, and cello. Now as a mother I can appreciate all the time spent running to and fro and the cost of all these opportunities for growth and development. I do want to take cello lessons again, perhaps when Brody is in school.

During my highschool years mom would ask if I wanted to skip school and go out to lunch and go shopping. Sometimes I'd have to decline if I had a test I didn't want to have to make-up. We always knew if we wanted one on one time all we had to do was ask. She is my favorite shopping partner. My only downfall is my indecisiveness!!!

Trips. I will admit, I had a very privledged upbringing. Traveling to Disneyworld 3 times, Europe 3 times, France, Germany, Norway, Denmark, Austria, Switzerland, Hawaii, Mexico, and most recently, Thailand. Those holidays have enabled me to become more well rounded, appreciate the diversity of God's creation, and be a part of many different cultures.
It is with love and appreciation mother that I send you just a few of these fond memories that we both share. I couldn't have asked for a better childhood. You taught me well, I always felt love and support and still do to this day!

Happy Mother's Day.

Love Stacey

Sand Castle Days, Cannon Beach Oregon