Last year, this year

One of Mom's favorite games to play with her family was "what were we doing last week/last month/last year ago on this day?" and it's a game we all play at some point or another. I know I'm constantly reflecting back.

Last year on Mother's Day, Tara was graduating from Marywood University. Several hours before that, Sean and Ellen were having their twins, Rosie first and then Jude a few hours later shortly before midnight. And Mom was in good health at that point. A lot to celebrate.

We stuffed ourselves into those tiny, uncomfortable chairs, a whole line of us, O'Connors and Abbamondis, and we waited to see Tara get called up for her diploma. Afterwards, we went out to dinner at some kind of steakhouse. I remember waiting awhile, but all of us in good spirits about it. The food had to be good. I gave Mom and Mrs. O cards for Mother's Day, and Mom liked what I wrote to her; I can't recall the specifics, but something about how her children are really just a reflection of herself, and how perfect that is. As dinner ended and we began to part ways, Mom tried to give me some cash. A folded five. I told her "no," and she tried again. I again said "no," but she was resilient, having to forcefully put the money in my hand. I remember that strongly, as I had frustrated her to a point that I regret.

That was last year's Mother's Day. Today...well, it was strange. Certainly bittersweet. Went to church, and the Rockaway Mall, and then took a nap. Thought about Mom a lot, about how May was her month, with three things to celebrate: Mother's Day, her birthday, and the weather turning warmer.

Happy Mother's Day

Hi Mom,

I wonder what you are doing today. Did you go to Woolworth's with Grandma for a soda? Are you taking a walk on the beach somewhere? Are you checking in with your loved ones? Is there a big party in heaven with music, wine, and laughter to celebrate all the moms?

I miss you so much. I am going to settle in later with my photo albums tonight and just look at your smiling, happy face. I love you so much.

Hugs and kisses,

Julie

PS - In yoga today, when we wrapped our arms around ourselves in some of the poses, I pretended I was giving you a big hug.

Happy Mother's Day

Mom,

In honor of Mother's Day, Julie, Paul and I wanted to create a place where we can write down all the wonderful memories we have of  you. 

I met a lady today and she was wearing a beautiful shiny claddagh necklace.  Of course, I thought of you and your jewelry and your love of your Irish heritage.  You had such great smiling Irish eyes!