Mother’s Day

Apres Mother’s Day.

The brunch or lunch is over. The flowers and cards have been bought. The mom’s have had a day to celebrate their years of hard work.

On Saturday, I was buying sausage in a well-known NY German meat market (that sounds funny, doesn’t it?). The older gentleman behind the counter was wrapping my purchase and wished me a Happy Mother’s Day tomorrow. I thanked him of course. He then asked the question – “You have children?” I said Yes I do. He asked their ages. I said, Oh they are 25 and 23. He said “Months?” with a sly smile. “No, they are grown now” I replied, knowing he was being kind. “Well you have done well…I should be so lucky.” I got a compliment and 4 sausage links for $5.63.

Yes – I have been fortunate to help raise two daughters, Kristen and Nicole. Although they were not born from my body, I have cared for them and loved them. I have tried to be the best mother I knew how – sometimes faultering, often worried – but I always tried. Today, they are two beautiful young women who I am very proud of. What greater gift can you have as a mom than that?

My mom, Beatrice Esquirol, is unfortunately no longer with us. She died young, a mere 67 years old, at the beginning of her retirement years. She was a wonderful woman, mom, friend. She was not perfect…nor are any of us. She was just a woman with a huge heart, a selflessness that surpasses most, and a giggle that made everyone smile. She was, and IS, my mom and I look forward to the day when I see her again and climb into her lap like I so often did (even as an adult – it was a little fun joke between us.)

I miss you mom.