KitKats and YooHoos

DQ Blizzards in the floorboards of Oldsmobile Cutlasses, Smurfs episodes in front of old space heaters, knee high panty hose and front clasp Cross-My-Heart bras, squeaky medicine cabinets and old blue bath mats, sun visors and rockin' chairs, "burn" plants and Big Wheels, Pat Sajak and Bob Vila, ajax dish soap and freezer burnt brunswick stew, honey buns, KitKats, and YooHoos, bible verses and gospel hymns, strength and beauty, humility and courage.

Mama Potts

June 13, 1920-November 30, 2008

Today I realized that the extent of my current exercise routine lies in the 12 steps it takes to get from the garage to the mailbox. Note to self: start walking soon.

Once I reached the mailbox and caught my breath this afternoon, I was greeted by the latest edition of my all time favorite "Taste of Home" Magazine. Hubs lives to find the hidden toothpick each month and I love to admire other people's initiative in the kitchen.

When I went to open this month's edition, a little post card fell out. My subscription has ended.

Mama Potts always bought my subscription each year.

It's been a year today since she found her wings on the other side.

I've been thinking about her so much lately. It's amazing how someone can have SUCH an impact on your life and leave footprints long after they pass from this world to the next.

Mama Potts' house was always FULL (well to be completely honest, infested) with ladybugs. It was one of the darndest things you ever had seen. The ceilings in her great room were covered with the tiny flutter winged creatures. He front porch was bathed in them. Her dining room windows were painted red and black with the little darlins. Try as she might, she just couldn't get rid of the things. She used to shoo them away and curse them under her breath. Funny, her being blind and all.

On Thanksgiving, two little pretty ladies planted themselves over the fireplace in my parents' kitchen.

This morning when I woke up, I went into Nolan's nursery to piddle around for a few minutes before work. I walked into his bathroom and saw a little speck on the side of the bathtub. What on earth is that? I moaned. I just cleaned you, you darn bathtub. Kick tub. Mumble. Groan. Make mental note to hire housekeeper upon winning the lottery.

As I walked over to the tub I saw the sweetest sight I've ever seen. A solitary red and black polka dotted little lady sat there staring back at me. At that very moment I realized that Mama Potts is still here, leaving her footprints long after exchanging her orthopedic shoes and support hose for angel wings and peep toe heels at the pearly gates.

I love you a heeeeeeap much, Mama Potts.