Memories

80 What?  How?

My mom recently celebrated her 85th birthday.  Eighty-fifth.  As in eighty five.  Wow.  Talk about someone who has stood and watched changes all around her.  
Mom is the fourth child out of 13!  I say is because all 13 children are still living.  She was born and raised in Los Angeles in an area that is now surrounded by high-rise buildings and small warehouses.  It was probably because of her strict Catholic up-bringing that she would do the opposite with her own children.  Don't get me wrong.  We did not get off easily and we did get corrected, if you know what I mean.
During the 60s I remember her enjoying music and listening to Pop and Soul radio stations.  She thought she knew the lyrics to some of the popular songs but we didn't say anything, we just let her sing.  She loved songs like "I Can't Help Myself" by The Four Tops and "Baby Love" by The Supremes.  
When it came time to tell me about the birds and the bees, that's what it was called back then, my mom did not hesitate to answer my questions although I wished she had.
My sister and I were having lunch one afternoon when we heard some stomping sounds coming towards the kitchen.  It was our mother streaking through the kitchen.  Butt naked.  It was the "trend" back then.  We laughed so hard as she ran past us!!
My mother's hearing is now almost gone so she doesn't listen to music. Her leg gives her problems so streaking is a definite no-no.  But she still does not hesitate to answer any questions.  Although sometimes I wish she would.
Happy Birthday Mom....and many more.