My mom was quiet and hardworking. If a family conversation was in full swing she’d have her back turned, puttering away on something at the kitchen counter but don’t let that fool you, she was listening and just like that, she’d chime in with a quick witted comment that usually left us in stitches.
My memories are beginning to fade but that’s okay because there’s a limited amount of people to correct me when my stories are slightly exaggerated. I tend to rely on photo albums to spark my memory. I study the black and white photos that are now left to mine and my siblings care. As I page through the photos, I often stop and set my gaze on a particular random photo and stare for a long period of time. I imagine myself in that era and what the world would have been like at that time.
I did not get to know my mom as a stylish dresser. She had staples that she wore such as slacks, jeans, sweaters, the obvious pencil skirt, and her wardrobe would not be complete without mentioning the denim KNICKERS, denim jacket and ribbed V neck tee. I would sometimes gift her a new trendy article of clothing but it wouldn’t take long and I would receive a phone call asking if I had kept the receipt. I never took offence at that, I knew she wasn’t comfortable in the new look! I actually admired her for her style and sensibility. To tell you the truth, my dad was the fashionable one. Haha! He was known to have up to three wardrobe changes in his farming pick up truck!
I’ve included one of the photos of my mom that I often stop and study. I believe the picture was taken on her family farm in the village of Blumenfeld. My guess is that she was ready for a date to meet my dad. The uncomplicated cotton sleeveless dress with the addition of pointed toe heels, a structured handbag, all complimented by a string of pearls is about as classy as a Mennonite women or (any women) in the 1950’s gets. I’d be lying if I didn’t mention that I adore this style, as you may have guessed with the boutiques’ 1950’s Audrey Hepburn window display. I could go on and on with stories about her photos but I’ll keep that for another post.
I want to extend a Happy Mother’s Day to my mother-in-law as well. She’s a very important influence in my life. She has a wealth of stories to share and wisdom to soak up. Her fashion sense has always had more flair and finesse. I’ve always admired her confidence and her spunky personality that accompanies her style. I’m so honoured to have her as my mother-in-law!
This Mother’s Day I encourage each of you to take time to reflect on memories about your mom/mother figure that make you smile! If you’re able, reminisce with her about her earlier years. Ask her questions about who she was and what was important to her. Relish in the opportunity to converse with her not only as a mom but a friend! If your mom is no longer with us, take time to reflect, speak to those who knew her, I’m sure you’ll uncover new and interesting details that will keep your mom close to you forever!
Written by Connie Fehr – Co-Owner