My mother was always proud of me, no matter what I did. As the first girl to go to college on either side of my large, Italian family, she beamed with joy and told everyone about her daughter, the teacher.
When I started writing romance books, she was happy for my success and wanted copies of my books. I gave her signed copies...but not of my erotic romances! That was my decision since I knew she'd never read them. She read the others, and also had copies of my nonfiction books.
Watching her age and slip into dementia wasn't enjoyable and saddened me. I cared for her as long as I could, but when she needed 24/7 care, the decision was made to place her in a nursing home.
For 2 1/2 years, I followed her lead in whatever she wanted to talk about...real and unreal. I was "in her world" whenever I visited her. I laughed and cried at times, but was grateful for her long life. I miss her all the time, but have wonderful memories to console me.
I'll celebrate Mother's Day at a baseball game this year. Already received gifts from my kids and will talk to them on Sunday.
Enjoy the day, whatever you do!
Marianne Stephens
http://www.mariannestephens.net
http://naughtiliterati.com
image:http://www.animationlibrary.com/
Happy Mother's Day to you, Marianne, and to all the moms out there. Your mother sounds very special. What a nice tribute to her.
ReplyDeleteLoved your column, and here's to all mothers!
ReplyDeleteHappy Mother's Day... I wasn't lucky to have my mom grow old and yes, it's something hard for me to miss her on this day. I'm glad you have fond memories of her and your time together.
ReplyDeleteHappy Mother's Day to all the wonderful women who care for and love another...