Today, I should be celebrating my dear mother's birthday. Instead, I'm enjoying her favorite pie and having sweet memories of her.

Cancer took her from us suddenly three years ago. We were unaware that she had cancer and it happened to fast to even worry. By the time we found out, it was spread too far for treatment. We had two short weeks to spend with her. I flew down from Germany and visited her daily in the hospital until she died.

I don't want to focus on the last days with her but, the wonderful years I had with her. There are so many wonderful memories of my mother. She was a single mother of two girls, but she never let that stop her from being a great mom.

I remember singing and laughing together.

I remember the many vacations.

I remember always getting lost on those vacations. Momma called it "exploring". She never wanted to admit we were lost.

I remember the teenage drama. I gave a lot of that.

I remember her buying my first pair of heels when I was around thirteen years old. (I've always loved heels)

I remember her comforting me when my heart got broken for the first time.

I remember her being at my side when I gave birth to my first baby.

I remember our trip to Paris. That was unforgettable!

I remember her being in the kitchen always baking.

Momma loved to bake. One thing that was a big tradition around the holidays was sweet potato pie. That was something we always had for Thanksgiving and Christmas. It's a favorite in our family.

My grandmother gave mom the recipe. Mom gave it to me and today I'm going to share the recipe with you.

Sweet Potato Pie

One homemade pie crust baked (or you could use a store bought one)

2 sticks of butter

5 lbs sweet potatoes, boiled and pealed

1 1/2 cups of sugar

2 tsp vanilla

1/4 tsp cinnamon

1 egg yolk

3 Tbsp evaporated milk

1. Boil sweet potatoes until soft. Allow potatoes to cool. Skin will peal right off.

2. Bake your pie crust according to your directions.

3. Mix all ingredients together with a mixer. It will resemble mashed potatoes....no lumps.

4. Put filling into pie crust.

5. Bake at 350 until brown (about 10-15 min)

Now go bake a sweet potato pie and enjoy it with those you love the most.

Sharon McCown

1949-2009

~Happy Birthday Momma. We will always miss you and we will never forget the many wonderful memories we have with you.~

Baking in Heels