Mamma Mia

Last night on TV, a production assistant on Martha Stewart's staff described his mother as "classy, elegant, strong" and, "yet, sensitive, loving, and sweet." He ended his list of glowing attributes by saying, "She's my momma."

My mom is RoseMarie. She was 26 was I was born to her on Valentine's Day. She says I was her best Valentine gift. (I am certain there were many days when she wished her little gift slept better, was quiet and stopped asking so many questions!)

My mom is very gifted and can give Martha Stewart a run for her money. Her home-making skills have been used in works of love... the hand-sewing of Halloween costumes; crocheting trendy floppy hats for friends; baking her famous crumb cake for the cheerleading squad's "Spirit Breakfasts;" binding my book of calligraphy for an art project; consulting with the bridal salon seamstress to make sure my best friend's wedding dress fit properly; whipping up a "get well" cheesecake for my friend Mike. My mom is also one of the most hospitable people around -- inviting Patti to move in after a fire at her house; treating Teddy like a king during his winter break visit after his Hodgkins' treatment; inviting Colin, Nigel and Caroline to celebrate holidays at our home when they were far away from theirs. My friend Carol once said, "I was in Lyndhurst and thought about stopping in to see your mom -- but I wasn't hungry."

Sunday, we will honor our mothers and the special women in our lives.

I can write for many more hours and not fully acknowledge all the ways my mom is a gift.
However, right now, I will choose to honor her and thank her for blessing me, our family and our friends with an abundant spirit and her good example of hospitality.

What woman's example or gifts have made a difference in your life?

Happy Mother's Day!