Hello Everyone,

Today is Mother’s Day. On this day, as on every day, I am reminded how grateful I am to have my mother. Not only as a source of encouragement, love, support and guidance, but also as a friend.

My mom inspires me every day to become a better person.

I’ve always been a mama’s kid. When I was little, my siblings jokingly called me “Mini Mom” because I always took my mom’s side. I saw how much she did for the family, and I wanted to return the favor in whatever way I could.

That continues to be the case to this day. My mom is an educator and a lifelong learner. I see how much she does for the world, and I want to return the favor however I can. That means curbing my temper (sometimes… when I remember…) and listening to other people. It means telling the truth in love. It means never giving up on myself, but holding up the hope that I can change and improve.

I am sadly aware that Mother’s Day is not always a happy day for many of my friends. Some have mothers who passed away. Others never had close or healthy relationships with their mothers to begin with. I want to recognize that motherhood and that special form of love and support does not need to be limited to biological relationships or to any specific gender. I hope that for those who are missing their mothers today will be able to find warmth and comfort in their loved ones or in themselves.

In other news, I started writing fiction again this morning. It was such an amazing feeling. I haven’t been able to write fiction since the pandemic started, but something shifted this morning just enough that I could start writing again. I have no idea if it will continue but I sincerely hope so.

I also made a little felt octopus with a tiny hat. I don’t think it’s really on the same scale, but I am proud.

Happy Mother’s Day! I love you so much, Ma.

Love to all,

LAF