Remembering Mama

You can't tell, but she was 8 months pregnant when my father took this picture!

If you've been keeping up with this blog or my Facebook, you know that last Sunday was my late mother's birthday, an event that always brings with it a mix of sadness and joy. I miss her terribly, but I celebrate the fact that she is in a far better place, at home with the Lord. Though she was always upbeat and uncomplaining, she suffered from severe rheumatoid arthritis for the last 35 years of her life. To say that she was ready to go at the end is an understatement, but prior to that, she bore her pain and limitations with absolute peace and acceptance, a perfect example of grace under pressure.

Though she passed away two and half years ago, it still feels like we should be sharing the last of the leftover birthday cake right about now. But even though I can't do that, at least I can celebrate the life she lived–and I can live my own life in a way that honors her memory.

Hope you enjoy these photos!

Jackie and her dad, Robert Dickerson

Mama and me, çirca 1963

Jackie and her beloved garden. She was organic long before organic was cool.