Yesterday afternoon I had the privilege of spending the day with two of my favorite “moms.”  I met Melitas about a year and half ago when she signed up for my memoir writing class.  At that time she was 91 and half.  She just celebrated her 93rd birthday and is still going strong.  Alba (also in the picture) is her caretaker, or as Melitas likes to call her “The Warden.”  I could write all day about Melitas and what an amazing woman she is to me.  Melitas has graduated from my Leaving a Legacy Series, but she still comes to classes at least once a week.  (Yes, she still drives!).  When I think of Mother’s Day, I think of not just my own mother but of all the mother’s who have entered my life.   Especially during these last 3 years, my students have become like mothers to me.  They have nurtured me, supported me, loved me, held me up and even admonished me when I needed it.  In my dark times, these women have all supported me with their wisdom and acts of kindness.  Yesterday, Mother’s Day, I reflected on so many of these women who have come into my life.  Thank you for being such a great example of how to be a woman with integrity.  I am truly blessed and forever grateful for all of you in my heart.

So this Mother’s Day we treated Alba and Melitas to a delicious dinner of Tequilla shrimp, homemade mac and cheese (I made 2 different versions), grilled asparagus and a delicious spinach salad.  For dessert we had carrot cake.  Melitas and Alba ate every single bite.  So even though I didn’t get to be with my own mom today, the joy of sharing and giving spread through my heart.  So Melitas, here is to you, may I have many, many, many more Mother’s Day celebrations with you.  I love you and thank you for being a part of my life.