Up Close and Personal

It's someone's birthday today. And much to my enjoyment, I just happen to have an album of her's at my house since I've been working on my family tree. Does anyone else want to pinch those little cheekies?!

This little blond haired cutie is none other than my mom. I wonder what got into her in this picture, because usually she is beaming. She has a radiant smile. She is the best listener. She only gives advice when you ask for it. She gives great hugs. She is my Souper Salad buddy.

And coincidentally, here is little Mary Ann Pankratz on her 2nd birthday! That was a LOOOOOOOOOOONG time ago. ;)

This is one of those smiles I was talking about! That is one fun homemade seesaw that Papa made up for them. Uncle Earl is pretty cute too. Grandma makes some beautiful babies.

For her birthday this year we are having an ice cream party. Mom has always loved ice cream!
I think it was just her way of saying "I'm not cooking!" Because somehow, even on those treasured days off (like a birthday) she ends up getting finagled into making one of her famous dishes.

Fun Fact: Mom loves peanuts on her ice cream. She loves peanuts period.

Fun fact: Mom and Uncle Earl had a pet deer!

Fun Fact: Mom is a great gardener and has a beautiful backyard full of awesome plants.

Fun fact: Grandma and Papa traveled the panhandle with their combine. How about that?! They were like gypsies, or a circus. Ha, not really! I don't think a combine for hire is much like elephants who do tricks.

Fun Fact: Mom was crowned Miss Hardin High and voted most popular.

Fun fact: Mom has four children and 6 grand children that love her very much.

Happy birthday wishes to you!! We love you soooooo much and can't wait to celebrate next year! Thanks for being born, Mom!