The Anatomy of Lifetime Friendship / Wareham Portrait Photographer

Today I’m feeling a bit nostalgic, I’m not sure why. Aside from it being throw-back Thursday, perhaps it’s partly due to the fact that I’m about to release my new website where I struggled writing an “about me” (but did it)! It starts with the words “I love memories…” of which I have many.  I think it’s also because today is the birthday of one of my lifelong friends. We share a lot of memories and it got me thinking about the evolution of friendship(s) and how rare and special this is.

There are 6 of us, we were all born in 1959 (yes, that’s right – not that long ago) within 5 months of one another and now today the last one joins the Fabulous Fifty-Five club. Two of us were born in January, one in March, one in April and the remaining two in May. Three of us share the same day, the 22^nd – January, March and May.

Some of us have been friends since kindergarten, some since first grade and then the pivotal moment when we all became friends was seventh grade. We’ve shared so much of this life together. Back then we spent tons of time with each other…I’d go to Debbi’s house for lunch across the street from school just a quick walk through the playground – we’d ice skate on the bogs in the winter. Chrissy and Cathy went to birthday parties together. We’d ride bikes to Jyl’s house or to the beach. As we got older we’d wait for JoJo to pick us up in her car. Jyl’s Dad let some of us drive his Audi before his own daughter even had her license! Chrissy had the coolest mustang that we all wanted to drive!

Together, we went to Brownies & Girl Scouts; some of us took dance lessons and acrobatics, ran track, played tennis and were cheerleaders. We worked at Angelos Supermarket or A&P or Dainty Maid (stores that are only a memory now). We’d sleep over each other’s houses (Cathy had the coolest bedroom) telling stories long into the night. We'd swim in Chrissy’s pool way after dark, go to parties and dance to Sly & the Family Stone - making more memories.

We graduated high school together and grew up. Some of us married, some went off to college. Some of us enjoyed our twenties carefree while some of us started to have children and embraced responsibility. One of us divorced and remarried, one became a widow in her late forties, one has been married for almost 37 years, one married her high school sweetheart and the other two have also been married for many years. Between us we have 12 children (with one set of twins) and 5 grandchildren. Through all this we have remained in each other’s lives for all these years celebrating good times and some sad times. 

It can be hard to make friends sometimes once you’re “grown up.” You find some work friends, socialize buddies but not always the one person you can count on kinda friend. But sometimes, I think it even harder to sustain a lifelong friendship between 6 women. A lot happens through the years…people come and go. Yet, there is something about this lifelong friendship that is comforting. Some of us see each other more often than others but we try to make a point for all of us to get together at least once a year. We all know that at any given moment we are there for each other…to pick each other up, cry with, laugh with, lend support in whatever way needed…just present for each other. We’re able to pick up right where we left off the last time…never missing a beat. We had dinners together, drank wine together, celebrated the start of summer with Memorial Day weekend cookouts together. We celebrated each other’s family’s births, deaths, children’s graduations, weddings and new careers.

We all feel fortunate and know that it is a very rare and special thing that we have – this lifelong friendship. We still are a part of each other’s history.

This Sunday we’ll all be coming together again to celebrate Chrissy’s son’s wedding. We’ll hug each other with arms open wide, telling each other “it’s so great to see you again – it’s been too long!” (Even though we did just have a slumber party in November.) I look forward to breaking bread, drinking wine and dancing the night away with my lifelong girlfriends celebrating one more moment in time that will soon become a very fond memory. We’ll raise a glass to toast the groom and his beautiful bride and then we’ll raise another to toast being lifelong friends in the Fabulous and Fifty-Five club.

Dear Sixteen Year Old Niece...Beach time is almost here

Dear sixteen year old, (soon to be seventeen in 8 days) darling, sweet niece (and all the other sixteen year old nieces, nephews, brothers, sisters, cousins, sons, daughters of someone who loves you) stop what you're doing and spend just 5:04 minutes to watch this video http://www.youtube.com/embed/_4jgUcxMezM

Why watch it? 'Cuz today you posted on facebook "whats up sun poisoning...was hoping i wouldn't see you till the summer..." and that made me sad. Yea, I'm gonna get a little preachy here because I really want you to hear me, not roll your eyes and pretend to listen - it's really important that you understand this. It's not just me saying "use that sunscreen" and nagging about it just to hear the sound of my own voice. I really care about you, really, really love and adore you as a matter of fact and I want you to live a long healthy, skin cancer free life!

I know, I know, I did it too and so did lots of my friends - a long time ago - lather on the baby oil, no sunscreen. Back in the dark ages (70's) it was called sun tan lotion (spf 2 or 4) and the smell of it every year just meant lots of summer time fun. I burned all the time, baby oil was not good for my skin nor was the spf 2 or 4 lotion. But I didn't have anyone telling me the real deal back then...no one really knew better. But today they do because lots of those people are now grown up (or not) and have experienced some type of skin cancer - yep, me too - basil cell on my nose, smack.dab.in.the.middle.of.my.nose. Luckily it was found early and taken care of but dear niece you have other members of your family too who also have had skin cancer so you might be predisposed to it.

Dear Sixteen Year Old Niece, ok, enough already I know...just watch the video, I'm just sayin' it's worth a listen and please, please, please put that 30+ sunscreen on!

I love you!!!!

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@52

Well, it's been quite sometime since my last blog and I've really felt guilty about it. Consistency is one of the keys to blogging and I've dropped the ball big time because I was busy, didn't know what to write, lazy, uninspired, whatever, doesn't matter the reasons, but today I'd like it to be the turning point of getting back on track and committing to the process of blogging. Most of my posts are about client sessions and the children, high school seniors and families I love to photograph - ok, sometimes a bit about the ones I love most, Tony, Jenn, Beckett, Mom and Dad, but not often about me, what I feel, fear, love, do for fun. I'm not always comfortable talking about myself certainly not in such a public forum but today I'm putting it out there. Today, I'm talking 'bout me @52. Yep, I've said it, 52! I know, you're not supposed to ask a woman her age but I'm offering it up - I'm proud of this number. I can't believe this number 'cause at one time it sounded so old to me! But now that I'm at that number, well it's still young so I'm really ok with it! If you're curious read on for 52 random things about me:

1. I was born on Palm Sunday at about 1p.m. in Boston, MA
2. I'm the oldest with 3 younger brothers, no sisters.
3. Dad is from Ossining, NY, Mom from Wareham, MA.
4. At the young age of 4 or 5 I saved the oldest of my 3 brothers from drowning.
I remember every detail like it was yesterday.
5. My greatest gift was born to me when I was eighteen. We grew up together.
6. I love cats and dogs. My first cat was Mittens.
7. I love to dance all the time.
8. And sing, although my singing isn't very good.
9. I wake up in the middle of the night with songs in my head - what's up with that?
10. My dream was to dance on Broadway.
11. I will always love musicals.
12. Fear has held me back but I fight it every day.
13. I love to laugh.
14. And love those who make me laugh.
15. Eyes have always been my favorite thing on a person...and great smiles.
16. Stepping out of my comfort zone, although uneasy is rewarding.
17. I've known some of my dearest friends since elementary and junior high school.
18. I like having that history together.
19. I am a fiercely loyal friend.
20. And treasure my friendships deeply.
21. I graduated from photography school when I was 40.this.was.a.big.deal!
22. Photography has brought me many riches but none of them monetary. The richness in relationships with the wonderful clients that have continued to work with me. Friendships have developed with photographers that I never would have met otherwise - you have all enriched my life.
23. I feel blessed and grateful everyday.
24. I used to have repeating dreams that I could fly and teeth dreams, ugh.

25. Tony is the second greatest gift in my life. We were meant to share this journey together. For real.
26. Twenty years together looking forward seems like forever. Looking back, like the blink of an eye.
27. Running your own business is hard.
28. Blogging is hard.
29. Being a one-woman show & wearing many hats is hard, challenging, frustrating, rewarding. I wouldn't trade one day.
30. I like accounting, really I do. Is that wrong?
31. Beckett has brought me so much joy - makes my heart smile every time I think of him.
32. Jenn is a wonderful Mom and daughter. I admire and adore her.
33. Tony makes me laugh...everyday.
34. I cry easily and often but not always from sadness.
35. It's taken me a long time to learn it's just a part of who I am.

36. I'm still learning acceptance about alot of things.
37. When I was a little girl, my Nana told me angels kissed me - 'cuz they had - on.my.right.cheek. They left a red birthmark. I think it looks like a bird.
38. It is not lipstick and no matter how hard you try to rub it off, it just won't.
39. I struggle with it from time to time.
40. I don't like feeling insecure.
41. Many blessings come from my 3 nieces and 1 nephew. I heart them.
42. I love watermelon.
43. And being outside, even in the snow.
44. I'm thankful my Mom and Dad are still with me sharing in this life's journey. I heart them too.
45. I love good food. Tom Colicchio cooked for me once.
46. Running, I love it - I'm not fast but for the past 2 years have continued doing it.
47. Zumba is fun.
48. I am still learning every day.
49. Even about myself.
50. I don't miss my twenties - ever.
51. In my mind I'm thirty-two.
52. But @52 is where I'm supposed to be.

This Weekend in the neighborhood

Well, there's alot going on in this sleepy sea-side town this weekend. We've had beautiful weather despite the humidity. As I started on my run yesterday, I noticed this umbrella on the lifeguard stand. Although I didn't have my camera with me I knew I had to come back, fingers crossed that no one would be sitting in the chair, and take this picture. So, 3 miles later and a quick drive home I returned and snapped away, a happy girl because this really represented the beachy, hot day.

Also, yesterday, Fox 25 was in town on one of their weekly zip trip visits. They highlighted Onset, one of the little villages in Wareham that I love so much. I run from Shell Pointe many mornings throughout the year and grew up spending many weeks on Onset's beaches. It holds so many fond memories for me. So, I was curious to see what was going on when I noticed the camera trucks. Although I didn't venture onto the pier (as it was filled with people) it was nice to know that this part of town was in the news for its beauty.

Tonight and tomorrow holds plenty to do. Illumination Night is held this evening where flares surround the bay at dusk. It really is a beautiful sight and it will be such a lovely evening to be on the beach. People were already claiming their spots at 9a.m. this morning with tents, volleyball nets, blankets and coolers. New this year will be lanterns hanging from surrounding homes. Tomorrow is family fun day in Tihonet (A.D. Makepeace property) to benefit the Onset Youth Center capital campaign.

Thursday night's are movie nights on the bluff in case you're looking for something else to do!

Or, if you prefer grab a chair, rest awhile and enjoy the scenic views from the bluff.

I love this town - being near the water does something for my soul. Hopefully it will do something for yours as well. Enjoy your visit!

Happy Happy Happy....

(It has been so long since my last post and the longer I go without writing the harder it is to get back into the swing of blogging regularly. So, here I start wishing all a happy new year and all things wonderful even if it is a tad late!)

So I thought it fitting for my first post of the year to be of my most favorite subject, Baby Beckett as it is his birthday today - Happy First Birthday, Sweet Beckett Boy! It's really hard to believe that a year has already gone by. He has brought me, his Nana, and his Papa T, along with his mom & dad, so much joy. A baby's giggle brightens even the darkest of days and there's nothing better than a snuggle with this sweet darling boy.

I remember the day he was born like it was yesterday. We got up early that Friday morning as his Momma-to-be had called us the night before to say she was heading to the hospital. Oh no, what should we do, we asked. So we slept for a bit and then hit the road for the 2 hour drive. We arrived at 9a.m. with plenty of time to await the baby's arrival. Of course, I had to be there when he was born, not only with camera in hand but to be with my sweet daughter during this amazing experience. And, it was truly an amazing one and only moment filled with so much emotion and love for this new little baby who graced us with his presence that afternoon at 1:05pm.

Oh what a year it's been. He's been photographed plenty (although I still need to do his one year portraits with a cake!) And he's the sweetest boy a Nana could ask for. He indulges me with my finger on his lips making the babababa sound over and over and over again. He has four teeth and stands and walks all over the place holding on to the table, to the sofa, to whatever he can reach. His laughter fills a room and you just want to squeeze him to pieces. These are just a few of the precious moments with our baby b. The year ahead will be filled with so many more firsts and we are looking forward to them.
Beckett, darling boy, you are a welcome addition to our family and it has been a wonderful first year watching you grow. We love you a million, zillion times around the moon and can't wait to celebrate today with you! Happy Birthday! Love, Nana and Papa T

A Beautiful Bride

...that was my daughter, 3 short years ago today. Seems like such a long time ago now but in a lifetime 3 years is quite short. It was a gorgeous Saturday wedding at The Wequassett in Chatham and a day I will never forget. I treasure the memories! Photographs were done by Alternate Angles of Rhode Island.

"No, Jenn I haven't forgotten your day today, sweet thing - I've been running around like a crazy woman trying to finish "everything" before I leave for my workshop tomorrow. You were such a beautiful bride and the day was spectacular. You make me so proud to be your Momma and with all my heart, I love you."

I just thought I'd share a few of the gorgeous images captured that day - now I have to go pack!

Jenn & Tim, Happy 3rd Anniversary! I hope you had a fun day with Beckett and Bear and we can't wait to see you soon.
Much Love, Mom

Nothing Better

...than the sound of a baby giggling. It's pure joy and can make you smile and laugh even if you don't want to. Take a look at sweet baby Beckett born into our family almost 5 months ago now. No more words need to be said, except maybe "car insurance" - take a look!

Cruisin on the Canal

A few nights ago on a gorgeous summer evening, I had the pleasure of going for a canal cruise on the Viking out of Onset. It was an event for the Cape Cod Canal Chamber of Commerce of which I am a member.
It was a 2 hour cruise with yummy appetizers from the Courtyard in Cataumet, drinks, to-die-for mini cupcakes from Patti Cakes in Pocasset and fun conversation. Unfortunately I didn't take any photos of the food but it sure was tasty! I know the main purpose of this event was to network with all the other members but all I really wanted to do on this beautiful evening was chat with my friends and take pictures, just for fun. So, that's just what I did!


I am so lucky to live in such a beautiful part of the state. The canal is fun to travel on with its 3 bridges and pretty scenery on both banks. On both sides of the canal there is a service road for people to walk, bike, rollerblade and fish. I never want to take for granted the beauty of this area and appreciate that I live only 5-10 minutes from the water!
My fabulous photog friend Amy and I were able to catch up on summer vacations and future happenings. She was the official event photographer - look how cute she is! Amy does beautiful wedding and commercial photography.We weren't the only ones having fun - these boaters were going fast, fast and looked like they were having a blast! It was a glorious night on the water as we arrived back in Onset facing the Point Independence Inn & Spa on the right with the red roof. So, if you're looking for something fun to do some warm summer evening, take a trip to Onset and board the Viking for a cruise on the canal. But if you can't I hope that wherever you are you enjoy your surroundings as much as I enjoy mine. Happy Summer!

A True Gentle Man

and one of a kind, my Dad. I have learned so much from him, patience, acceptance, compromise, and an "it'll all work out, one way or another" attitude. I believe my love of the outdoors stems from him. At an early age we would go for walks in the woods, the bogs, the canal, the forest. He loves to sing, me too - although I can't carry a tune! In my eyes, my Dad knows everything - he reads alot and I call him whenever I need to figure out how to do something, "Dad, how do I fix...", "Dad, can you change my oil?", "Dad, can we put some floor boards in the attic?" "Dad, wanna go for a walk?"

My Dad loves to have great conversation and has a wonderful sense of humor. He loves the Patriots and the Fighting Irish. He is a kind, sensitve soul and a deep thinker. Although I have been 'grown up' for a long time he is still my Daddy and I adore him.

I treasure every moment we spend together, Dad. Thank you for your encouragement, love and support of everything I do. Happy Dad's Day to the best Dad in the world! I love you!!

Today - A Very Special Day

Yes, although it is flag day that is not the reason for why this day is so special to me. You see, dear readers, 12 years ago, TODAY, I married the best man ever! After being together for six years embracing the family we had become, we were married at 11:30 a.m. (alright a wee bit later than that) on a gorgeous Saturday morning. I woke to the typical foggy morning in Orleans that day, nervous stomach about the weather as we were getting married outside at the lovely Captain Linnell House and wedding day jitters. Of course, everything had to be perfect as every bride knows. (Our photographer - who is now my dear friend - was Amy Rader and here are some of her lovely images.)

It was the most special of days, one that I treasure always. I feel blessed to have found someone who loves me, flaws and all. A man who still laughs at all my silliness, dances in the kitchen with me, holds me close when I cry, encourages me, supports me, loves theatre, movies & the ballet and who can sing and doesn't mind when I try to sing along with him, plays guitar & writes songs about me and so much more. I am the lucky one.

My dearest Tony, hard to believe so many years have gone by - I adore you, love you more than ever and am happy to be traveling on this journey with you. Thank you for bringing so much joy and happiness to our home. Happy Anniversary, love!

I Love New York

Last week, I had the pleasure of accompanying my hard-working hubby to NYC on business. While he was working I of course was out walking and photographing, just for the fun of it. Although there is great architecture in the city, I am drawn to the people, all kinds of people. We stayed in the financial district near the water and I spent the better part of the day walking the waterfront and the Wall Street area, people watching. There are so many people in NYC!
Here are a few of my favorite images - from the ILNY t-shirts to the guy and 2 dogs in the Red Sox shirt (he was a brave soul! - don't you just love how the dogs are looking opposite ways?), to the camera crew filming, to the bike riders.

There were the dog walkers, chess players, knitters (the lady with the orange bag), ladies with great hats and little boys trying to figure out what to do on the big foot! It was such a lovely day. That night eleven of us met for dinner at this awesome restaurant, Alta. They are known for their small plates, tapas style and the food was delicious! One of the hits of the table was, you'll never believe it, brussel sprouts! OMG, to die for!! It was a fun, fabulous night. Wednesday, up bright and early, six of us (our friends from Ireland and 2 transplanted New Yorkers, a brother of our Irish friend and his wife) started our day in Greenwich Village, eating a light breakfast and drinking yummy coffee as we were embarking on a 3 hour food and walking tour of the village. Tony & I did it 2 years ago and loved it. We thought it'd be a great way to show off the sights and eat some more food! NY is all about the food, isn't it? Our guide, Curt was experienced, knowledgeable and very funny. If you're in NYC don't miss this tour. There's always so much to do in the city and never enough time. Every time we visit, I see something new, never tire of it and feel so energized! But, we departed on Thursday happy to have shared these one and only moments with our friends, who we don't get to see as often as we'd like. Thanks dear friends for a lovely visit. See you again soon.
Hum along now, I love New York!

The Weekend Follow-up

Well, just thought I'd fill you in dear readers on what an amazing weekend we had in Boston! After checking in at the Park Plaza Boston we headed over to the castle to check out the happenings at Avon Walk Opening Eve. Of course, we had to purchase a new pink hat for me to wear on Sunday and Tony picked up his award (medal ribbon) for being a top fundraiser! Then we headed to the North End to meet Jo, Ruey and Courtney for dinner at Damiano's. Wow, it was a fabulous dinner. (I'm hungry as I write this so I'll obsess about it a bit.) The restaurant serves small plates, tapas style if you will, and we shared so much food. Their mushroom risotto & risotto with peas and prosciutto and their eggplant were delicious along with everything else we ordered. I digress...more about food another time.

Saturday we were up at 4 a.m. to pack up and head over to UMass Boston by 5:30 to eat breakfast. The day was beautiful, sunny, warm and overall gorgeous. We were welcomed by the staff and stretched a bit and then at 7:00 a.m. right on the dot we left the campus for our long walk of 26.2 miles to the Wellness Village at the beautiful campus at Reebok Headquarters in Canton. We walked through some beautiful areas of Boston and surrounding towns and tried to keep each other's spirits up as we continued on our journey. By the end of day 1, we were exhausted, with blisters - some of us worse than others and wondered how we would make it back another 13.1 miles on day 2. Emotions were high reaching our goal at end of day on Saturday - we couldn't believe we walked a marathon. It took us all day till about 5:45 p.m. and we were exhausted!


The event was so well organized. The routes were well marked and at every major crossing there was the motor crew. Guys and a gal on motorcycles who would follow the route to make sure we crossed safely. There were the sweep vans for those that needed medical attention and couldn't walk any further. Also, there were many cheering stations and while passing through beautiful neighborhoods kids set up lemonade and iced tea stands. It was unbelievable how much support was out there. The cheering and encouragement to keep going was a big help, especially at end of day on Saturday and all day on Sunday as it was a really rainy cloudy day. There were rest stops and quick stops all loaded with food, water, gatorade and much appreciated medical staff.

Jo's son Garrett was working on a crew at the wellness village and we were so happy to see him! He took great care of us - we felt pretty special - as he retrieved our duffel bags and set up our tents for us!! We are forever grateful to him for making things easier for us. Thank you Garrett!

Saturday night we (3 girls) took a much needed yoga class, then ate and showered. Yep, they had showers in a truck...with hot water, a lot of hot water. It was great. Then lights out at 10 and then the wind picked up and the rains came. It was a tough nights sleep but no matter, it was just one night.


Sunday, we were up and out by 8 a.m. to continue our journey back to UMass Boston. With sore feet we finished our mission at 2:15 p.m. arriving through the arched finish line, happy to have completed our first Avon Walk. We met some wonderful people all with a common goal, raising money for awareness, research and a cure to end breast cancer. There were 2500 walkers and collectively we raised $5.6 million dollars for the Boston area! Thank you to my cousin Stephanie and to my friend Lesa for the inspiration to get involved and try and make a difference. And a big thank you to Tony, Jo and Ruey for making this journey with me - I couldn't have done it without you. I wouldn't have laughed as much, sang as much, walked as much or cried as much (ok, maybe that one) without all of you. It was a great weekend!

It's Here....Avon Walk Weekend

Wow, somehow you never think it's going to get here and then the next thing ya know, wham, it's here. This is the weekend that I've been training for these last few months, walking - lots & lots of walking. This is the weekend that I've been raising money for these last few months, lots & lots of money! I was committed to raise $1800 (have to if you want to walk), which I did and thought let's see how much more I can raise. Well, I've raised $3300 thanks to all of you, my dearest supporters from friends, family and my devoted clients. THANK YOU. (Between myself & my hubby who's walking too, we've raised over $9!) If you haven't donated and would like to, there's still time over the weekend - any amount - $5, $10, $25, $100, $250 - any amount is better than zero! Visit my Avon page to make a donation and double your dollars if you'd like a portrait session. Any amount donated will be applied as a credit to your account - wow, free money!




A very special card arrived in yesterday's mail from my dear friend, Lesa! She is one of the women who has inspired me to walk and raise money for this cause. She is a talented crafter and makes her own cards and sends them, free of charge, to people, women, who are battling breast cancer. She is a survivor, a strong woman and I admire her will and her desire to give back to others. She says it best - "Throughout the the darkest time of my life I looked forward to going to my mailbox to see if I had any little envelopes of love waiting for me. Each card I received, that was lovingly handmade just for me, kept me afloat. Made me smile. For however brief, the moments I felt buoyed, encouraged and loved were priceless. They were my little life preservers. So came the name of this site. "




And she's making some tile jewelry which I will be wearing all weekend in honor of her! Thank you, Lesa for your encouragement and thoughtfulness. I'll be thinking of you.

Well, dear readers, I'm off to walk for 2 days as one, with thousands, looking forward to a weekend full of love and inspiration raising money for research, a cure and for funds for women in treatment. The sun will be shining, I just know it!

Mom

It's interesting to have a special day to celebrate your mom - I guess maybe because we can sometimes take moms for granted, that they'll always be here (at least physically) with us. We know they'll be there when we need them to make us feel better when we're blue or not feeling well, cook our favorite pot roast dinner and be the first ones we want to call when something great happens. I feel lucky to have my Mom still with me only 6 miles away, living in the same home for the last 30 years or so. We see each often, celebrate most holidays together and I feel comforted knowing (even at my advanced age;-) she is down the road and just a phone call away! This is what she looked like when there were 3 generations of Moms (me, my Nana Babs, my baby girl Jenn and my Mom.)

I could not have raised my daughter without her. She and (my Dad) were instrumental in our development. She was always there when I needed her, allowing me to move home when I needed to, babysitting for Jenn even though her schedule was busy too and she probably didn't feel like it, picking Jenn up when I couldn't get home from work in time but most of all making sure that we were safe and loved. All the things a Mom does for her kids, there were four of us, she did for Jenn too. Jenn turned out great and I know my Mom had a hand in that!

Now she's a proud great grandmother (GG), loving her new baby Beckett to pieces...doting on him whenever she can and hoping that she'll be the next one in the long line of "Can I hold him now?"


She's a spunky lady, my Mom, feisty at times fighting for what she believes in; caring, with a huge heart helping anyone in her path; creative in the garden and willing to help me in the studio whenever she can. This is how I love to see my Mom, smiling, silly and laughing - that's all I want for her, to be happy.

So, thank you Mom for all you have done and continue to do for me. Thank you for being the strong woman you are. I appreciate every day we have together and am forever grateful to you for allowing me to become the woman I am today.
Most of all, thank you for loving me - I love you - Happy Mother's Day!