- Neither is into organized much of anything, particularly religion.
- But they have deep conversations, waxing philosophical and sometimes poetic; they enjoy visiting the world of ideas. (And I love to be there when it's the two of them discussing things.)
- And history. Especially the Civil War. Mama's been to many of the battlefields and Pop plans on going.
- And nature, though Pop actually goes outdoors and Mama just likes to think about it, being a true New Yorker. Both of them have this thing about weather.
- And travel. I think Mama would do the National Parks and Civil War sites with Pop. I don't know if he go to Antarctica with her.
- And they both like to take photographs--Pop, of his ducks; Mama, of her cats.
- Pop reads a lot of books; Mama buys a lot of books hoping to read them (and now listens to audiobooks). Neither is much of a go-to-the-movies fan.
- Both like to keep up with current events, though Pop enjoys the national public and political debate almost as theater; it just makes Mama tense. But they are both two of the most informed people I know. Note: they're both good liberal Democrats. (Though, now, Pop's practically a Socialist!)
- And risk averse. They both are cautious. When Dad would take us for boat rides, we'd practically have enough drinks for a week. Mama had enough water during the hurricane for a month.
- But Dad's a more cautious driver than Mama; though, she's slowing down and is still more careful than many.
- I feel safe with them both.
- Both see taking care of their loved ones as their highest priorities.
- And they're pretty good caretakers. And I have lots of experience being on the receiving end.
- Mama is not a great patient. I'm pretty sure Pop isn't either.
- Sis and Bud bring out something special in both of them, something only kids/grandkids can elicit. It's beautiful, touching to watch.
- Both like Broadway musicals. And will sing. Pop will make up words; Mama knows them.
- And spicy food.
- And will pretty much try any food once. Though she likes Brussel sprouts, and he doesn't. He'll tell a story about having to eat them at Mr. Campbell's. And we did once try getting him to eat some here; he gamely swallowed one.
- Though, Pop drinks and Mama doesn't really.
- Generally, neither is much for discussing difficult things or emotions; it's hard. But when they do, it's from the heart.
- They are loyal and devoted and protective, like bull dogs.
- But they both like cats.
- At one point, he wanted to play the banjo (or ukele or harmonica). She wishes she played the violin.
- Pop is laid back and social, like at the bay; you couldn't ever really say that about Mama, though, who finds the bay a challenge.
- She liked driving his boat, though.
- They're both gentle; just don't get them angry, "my friend." And drop the B.S.
- And sentimental. I love Gommie's story about her anniversary Swatch watch. And there are too many stories like that about Mama to tell here . . .
- Mama is an IT professional. Pop used to say that computers are glorified calculators; he's coming around, though.
- She likes stuffed animals. Please don't ask him about my buying the stuffed bear meal toy at the fast food place.
- Pop has a strong moral code--justice, generosity, acceptance, respect, compassion, hard work, forgiveness. Mama similarly strives for honesty and truth.
- Neither is much concerned with style, fads, trends, name brands, (especially in clothes!), but they can appreciate, and look for, quality.
- Yep, Mama really likes her Subaru. Yep, Pop, you should get one.
- As many of you know, Pop is at least a full foot taller than Mama.
- I feel their love and I love them both in return very much. And I strive to incorporate the best of them in me.
- And, chances are, both will read this and never say so.
(I love you, too, Mom. That's a different list!)
No comments:
Post a Comment