My mother

It's with a sad heart that I tell you all of the passing of my mother, Maria Shambaugh. She lived to the ripe age of exactly 91.5 years old. We always celebrated half birthdays, she made such a big deal about them.

Today, I'm reminiscing about the beautiful clothing my mother made for both me and my sister while growing up; my mother was a true artist in the realm of sewing. She made beautiful clothing and undergarments that looked professionally made. She loved trying new crafts and making things for her home, such as macramé plant hangers, artsy owls, and other artsy wall hangings. Crocheting and knitting were her other passions; she made dozens of knitted beanies for children and babies earlier this year. I have the beautiful linen tablecloth that my mother had worked her cross-stitch magic on. She loved to do hand embroidery on our clothes, making them uniquely beautiful. I have the lovely christening gown and bonnet she made for our daughter; it's officially a family heirloom. While I'm saddened by her passing, she has left a legacy of love of handcrafting for both me and my daughter.