While Chopping Potatoes for a Farmer's Omelette This Morning

I thought of Theone--a woman who

was also known as The One

never failed to speak her mind

was a temperamental card player

thought deeply about her loved ones

remembered poverty

made a mean pan of sweet rolls

became a social advocate

could make a meal when the cupboards looked bare

loved the waters of Rainy Lake

said "I love you" with food

didn't worry about being politically correct

started the day with a cigarette, aspirin and a glass of water

valued order and cleanliness

was always a bit of a kid herself

understood the importance of forgiveness

sent Mary Engelbreit calendar pages

noticed nature's gifts

passed gas and laughed

had systems for recycling before it was fashionable

was proud of her family

was soothed by the daily routines of life

had a saying for everything

knew loneliness and depression

had beautiful handwriting

always carried her loved ones in her heart

relished small town life

had a deep faith

cherished the meals with her family at her table

had a love hate relationship with cigarettes

could always make better food than any restaurant

saw all her grandchildren graduate from college

loved "being home"

made an impression on everyone who knew her

and

was deeply loved.

Barbara A. Bernard

Fortunate daughter-in-law

10/9/10