Small town; coal town. A place where immigrants from Ireland, Germany, and Poland established themselves and where one can find unique dishes such as Pigeons, Soupies, Faggots, and Halushka. A place where breakfast for three costs $8.90 and where one can hear the skinny about what's going on in the town and with its inhabitants. A place full of hardworking, generous folks who love their local sports teams and are deeply involved in the community. A place where my grandparents live.
Trips to Mam and Pap's are characterized by old movies, time spent in the kitchen or the downstairs family room, the mantra "Are ya hungry?", laughter, sarcasm, and relaxation. A nice weekend away chuckling at differences and being grateful for similarities.
As I sat at breakfast this morning there were three generations present - Mam, my mom, and myself. I chuckled at how different we each are and yet marveled at how there is an evident thread of selflessness, sacrifice, and strength that has been passed down. I admire both of these women and enjoy spending time with them; listening to them, laughing with them, and playing Rummikub or Bingo!
***If you're interested in the history of Shamokin... http://www.shamokincity.org/history.htm ...I learned a few things I never knew!
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