Younger Than Springtime

Susie Latty Day was born in 1906 and blessed this earth with her presence for ninety years but she never seemed old to me. She seemed always younger than springtime. Mom saw amazing changes during her lifetime, from horse and buggy transportation to cars and airplanes and rocket ships that went to the moon.

Mom was the mischievous middle child of the Levi and Edna Latty family. She was the one who loved to play pranks, loved to visit with friends, attend play parties, play the old pump organ and sing.

But, I think most of all, Mom loved to read. Books were always a part of our family, books and classic children’s stories. I don’t remember the childhood books as much as I remember Mom telling my brother and me stories she grew up with: Little Red Riding Hood, Goody Two-Shoes, The Three Billy Goats Gruff, The Three Bears, The Little Red Hen.

Mom’s first plane ride.

Although she was an excellent cook and spotless housekeeper, Mom preferred being outdoors. I think she had a green thumb because whatever she planted, grew. One of my favorite memories is coming to visit her one summer day. She met me in the yard, her old straw hat on her head and a smile on her lips. She had been digging in the dirt, planting flowers and she was happy.

Any time I had a problem or was troubled, I went to Mom. She would listen. She might not offer advice but just being in her presence made me feel better.  I learned many things from my mother but what stands out is courage. My mother and my dad were two of the most courageous people I have ever known. They didn’t talk about courage; they just were courageous. They lived it.

From Mom, I learned to have faith in God no matter how bleak the world seemed. Because she loved me, with all my many faults, unconditionally, I came to believe God loved me too.

When I taught school, I’d stop in at Mom and Dad’s house at the end of each day. I loved sitting down at their table with cups of coffee and maybe a piece of pie left from lunch. Mom made the best coffee I’ve ever tasted and, although I try, my pies still don’t equal hers.

Her family, Dad, her children and grandchildren meant more to my mother than anything else. She loved each of us unconditionally. She was like a second mother to my son, Matt.

When Mom went to be with her Heavenly Father, she left a hole in my heart that still aches. She was my best friend and confidante. Truly, I was blessed to have her as my mother.