Mother's Day is about 10 days away. I know this is to be a column about gardening, but I can't help but pay tribute to my mom this year. She is a very special lady.

Unfortunately today she doesn't know me, but I think she recognizes me as someone familiar. I just pray that she is at peace in her final years.

Her story is like so many other stories, but she is special to me; she's my mom.

She was a Rosie the Riveter during World War II. She had four sons, raising them over 40 years -- there were 21 years between the oldest and the youngest. Each of us had different talents and likes, which she nurtured.

Early in their marriage Mom and Dad suffered through drought and floods on the farm. She moved 350 miles away from the anchorage of her family when Dad lost his job and found one in Cape Girardeau. She made a home for all of us during some financially trying times. We boys were not aware of any problem at all.

Mom and Dad had a few good years after retirement and the move back to her hometown. Then in November 1987 Mom put Dad in the hospital one day, had her home burn the next day and buried one of her grandson's two weeks later. She never faltered, taking everything one day at a time.

Fours year later, Dad died and Grandma moved in with Mom. Mom faithfully cared for Grandma until the day she passed away.

I can't think of a time when Mom was not caring for someone. As a child I would get a rose and give it to Mom to wear to church on Mother's Day. Sometimes I would make up a card and give it to her. Today I send her a bouquet of carnations. She seems to brighten up a little when she sees them. Unfortunately, that's all I can give her now.

So on Mother's Day stop and take the time to thank Mom for being mom. Give her some flowers, a card and a hug.

And thank God for the gift he has given you.

Send your gardening and landscape questions to Paul Schnare at P.O. Box 699, Cape Girardeau, MO 63702-0699 or by email to news@semissourian.com.