Mable Barmuta: Memories as clear as crystal

Published 1:30 am Friday, May 12, 2017

We asked readers to tell us what they love about their moms. Kids from 17 to well over 70 entered The Herald’s Mother’s Day contest. The winner received a $100 gift card to Renee’s Contemporary Clothing in Everett. But there were many other heartfelt stories. You can find all of them here.

Son: Michael Barmuta, Everett

Mom: Mable Barmuta

My mother passed away five years ago, at the age of 91. A day does not go by that a small flicker of her memory sparks in my mind.

In the summer we would go to the beach. She would rub olive oil onto our skin, so we could “tan up.” No Coppertone, too expensive. Coming back home we sat on those horrible blistering hot plastic seat covers of our ’57 Dodge.

At Christmas there were presents under the tree. But my favorite was the large hand-knitted stocking with my name on it hanging over the fireplace. Filled with small presents especially selected just for me. It was topped with a large orange and candy cane.

On the 4th of July we would drive to our cabin at the lake, packing firecrackers, sky rockets and roman candles. She was always concerned that I would “blow my fingers off.” But at the end of the day I still had all my fingers to eat the delicious fried chicken she made and a big slice of cold watermelon.

Those memories are still clear as crystal in my mind. Boy, do I miss her.