The last few weeks have been a bit crazy. My Dad was sent to the hospital once again because he had an infection… and I had a few events to cater. At times it felt like I was barely keeping my head above water, but somehow everything worked out. Dad is home and doing better… and all of my events went well.
The Wedding Table
Yesterday was Mother’s Day and I woke up feeling a little blue. I know that I was lucky to have a mother that loved me… but I still mourn her passing all these years later. I know that I am not alone in sadness. I am very aware that this day is hard for many. There are grieving mothers mourning the loss of a child… and many children mourning the loss of their mother. And so while my husband slept I got up and started making pies… it’s something that helps me feel better. Each of us has our own way of coping… baking just happens to be my way.
The first pie that I made was a quiche for a friend of mine who lives nearby. She is not only a mother, but also a grandmother, and she and her husband are raising their special-needs grandson. I admire them both so much for what they are doing… and when I see them with their grandchild, I am humbled by their love and dedication. If more people could be like them, this world would be a much better place.
Mushroom and Pepper Quiche
Next I began prepping a Strawberry Rhubarb pie for a man at church who recently celebrated his 97th birthday! Two years ago I baked a cake for him on his 95th birthday, and amazingly he is still going strong. Last week he wasn’t at church because he was attending the 75th reunion of his college class… not surprisingly only one other student made it to that celebration! I am so inspired by this man’s love of life! I just hope that I can live out my years as joyfully.
Strawberry Rhubarb Pie prep
And now I would like to end this post on a very happy note: I want to mention that this week my husband and I are preparing to leave for a long-awaited vacation in Italy. We both have been to Italy before, he when he was just 7 years old, and me when I was 18. Clearly, it has been a very long time… but we are both looking forward to this exciting adventure. And just so you know, I will be packing a few pie tins in my bag… just in case I get the chance to gift a pie! Wouldn’t that be fun?
Caio for now!
“All that I am, or all that I hope to be, I owe to my angel Mother.” Abraham Lincoln
Pie a Day Give Away 
Another beautiful entry, Karen. Have a fine journey to Italy. May it be a time of refreshment for you both.
Happy Mother’s Day Karen! To one of the most amazing mothers I know. Ciao Bella xo
Loved this entry! Enjoyed talking with your Dad Sunday. He seems to be feeling better and seemed to enjoy our conversation. You should be complimented on all you do for him. Our parents were there for us and we do appreciate all they did and try to return the favor. Enjoy Italy, you and Emile deserve the trip.