For Flour On The Counter

Mom, I still think about you making chicken and dumplings, with flour spread over the granite counters and paper football somehow showing up right there while dinner was coming together.

When I was younger, that probably just felt like a normal night at home. Now I see how much love was in it — food, play, patience, and that feeling that I was safe enough to just be myself in the middle of the kitchen.

I hope today feels steady and comfortable for you, especially in this recovery season. I love you very much, Mom.