June 25, 2012
Dear Mama,
I was looking through photos again and came across a favorite of mine.
A favorite because over time I’ve learned what effort went into my first recital dress.
Daddy wanted me to take piano lessons, and so he bought me a piano and arranged lessons. You made sure I arrived at lessons on time, and you made certain I practiced, practiced, practiced!
And then it was time for my first recital! What’s a girl to wear?
Daddy had also bought you a sewing machine. I had listened to you fuss every time you went near it. You sounded as if you hated that machine.
When things didn’t go exactly as they should, you went into a rage and said you’d never touch it again.
BUT you put your distaste and dislike behind you and bought pink organdy and white lace to make my first recital dress!
I know it wasn’t an easy task for you. If things weren’t perfect, you’d get so angry. (Now I understand where my obsession with perfection comes from!) Yet, you finished that dress and as this photo shows, even in black and white, you did an outstanding job on it. I felt grown up the day Daddy took this photo.
I don’t remember what piece I played that night, and I don’t remember being nervous. I do remember feeling so dressed up and proud because you had my dress.
See? We were capable of good times and making happy memories, weren’t we?
I love you!
Sherrey