Turning 80 years old is a milestone, that calls for a celebration. Last week, my beautiful and loving Mama turned 80 years old. She was born to a family of seven children and grew up in hardship, which made her the strong woman she is today. In this blog post, I’ll share some tidbits about her life, talents, sacrifices, and love for her family.

My Mama is a woman of many talents. When we were kids, she used to take pottery classes and made beautiful art that decorated our walls. She was also a gourmet chef who made the most delicious treats. Her baking skills were second to none. We were always impressed with her culinary magic. Later in our childhood she held a part-time job as an office clerk and worked for years at the shoe store my dad had shares in. She and my dad’s mother worked together at that particular branch.

In addition to being a talented potter and chef, Mama was also very involved in our education. She was on the PTA and ran the Tuck shop at our Catholic school.

Mama has become a beloved figure in our family and central in our children’s lives. She adores her grandchildren and goes out of her way to make things memorable for them. To become a nana was a dream come true for her. She has a unique relationship with each of the four grandkids.

Mama and Dad immigrated to the US in the mid-’90s. Starting over in your 50s is not easy, and it means a lot of lifestyle changes. But they made the sacrifice for my sisters and their daughters. Today, she has four surviving siblings who are living in South Africa.
Mama’s love and dedication to our family are what makes her endearing. She has always been a loving and doting mother and grandmother. She instilled in us the values of kindness and unending love. We appreciate all that she has done for us. Her 60-year partnership with Papa is a testament to the power of love, devotion, and big-time bickering. They have been through good times and bad.

My Lanibeth’s 80th birthday is a celebration of a life well-lived. She has given so much to our family, and we are blessed to have her in our lives. I will be 58 soon and it is an honor to grow old with my parents. She taught us to be kind, work hard, to treasure our family members, and to appreciate life. Nana is really unique and special. Happy birthday to our beautiful old girl. We all love you very much.