My husband, and I have really embraced grilling a meal together on the weekends. It is something we look forward to but takes some planning. He is always in charge of the grill and I usually add a roasted vegetable and a salad to the mix. Our efforts are most enjoyed over a glass of wine on the screened-in porch. It was during one of these meals that we talked about how lucky we are to have Moms that know how to cook and show their love through these abilities. This weekend, for Mother’s Day, let your Mom know how much you appreciate all the wonderful meals she has made and planned for you over the years.
My Mom makes the most amazing pies. Our family has often mentioned that she could start her own business because her pies are so delicious, completely homemade and much sought after. Each slice is served up with love and a smile.
To many of those in the Florida golfing community where my parents live, she is known as “The Pie Lady.” Carry-ins are standard after most group golf outings. The expectation is that Mom will bring a couple of pies followed by the expectation that if you are not one of the first sixteen in line, you will not be eating pie that day. Peach, apple, rhubarb, strawberry, lemon and chocolate meringue, key lime, gooseberry, cherry, blueberry, pumpkin, blackberry, raspberry…you name it, everyone has their favorite and Mom has made them all.
On one visit a couple of years ago, my husband and I went to the peach orchard to help pick peaches with my parents. It was a fun afternoon of rolling up our sleeves and fanning the bees away in order to find the best plumpest, juiciest fruit on the trees. The reward, of course, was a delicious peach pie. Even though the crust is absolute perfection, it is always fun to see my Dad request his slice be covered with a scoop of ice cream.
Just because I have several of the “secret recipes” that Mom has graciously shared with me over the years, doesn’t mean that I have been able to duplicate her pie making skills with the same finesse. Honestly, I’ve not even attempted it that many times. I am completely content to know that my Mom takes the cake with her pies and I have been a lucky fork holder on many occasions.
I owe much to my Mom. Mom’s are good at life’s lessons because they have experienced more than we have. My Mom’s pies have a lesson for all of us-create happiness with the things you make and the moments you share. It will bring a smile to you and to those who receive it.
Keep your forks, there’s pie!
Smiles,
Wendy