Potatoes

(Lyndon 7)
My mother had been a school teacher, had a great deal of determination and German drive, insisted on perfection.  One time when she was sick, I got supper.  My father said, "A good supper.  The potatoes are fine and well mashed too."  My mother said, "Yes, the potatoes are good but not well mashed.  They are full of lumps."  My father swore.