When I was 17 years old, my Momma, "Inez" died. She was only 43 and her death was quite unexpected. I didn't realize how much her death effected me until years later. This letter is to her.

Dear Momma,

I'm sorry I was not always good. I'm sorry I was not always in tuned with you and what you lived through. I know you had some hard times, but to me it was just life. I never knew what it was like to do without though now I know how you struggled to keep seven kids fed and clothed. I now know you were a special person with a tender heart and a sweet personality, but to me you were just Momma.

I married Randy. The boy I had just started seeing when you left us. We had 3 children. My oldest is 20, my middle child is 19, and we have a 3 year old too. I named my daughter after you and she has your eyes and your nose. I missed you at my wedding. I am sorry you didn't get to see me graduate high school. I'm glad you got to see my photo's before you died, of the cap and gown. It was a very sad day for me. I needed you when I had my children. I didn't know what to do with them. They turned out pretty good though.

Your other kids turned out well. Steve and Charlotte both have new marriages now and Renny is about to get married. Daddy must be very happy since he finally got to go to be with you. You are his only true love, you know. Tammy really needs you Mom. Her life is a mess and she needs help. We all try to help her but we don't always know how to help her. I wish you were here.

You have 12 grandchildren, 2 step grandchildren, 4 great-grandchildren, and one on the way. We all love you dearly and you will always be part of our lives.

Pam