Families TODAY: A tribute to moms, part 3

So much has happened in my life that I should have been able to share with you, my Mother - my wonderful daughter's birth nearly 40 years ago and how she and I 'grew up together' and how close we are today (how sad that you and Whitney missed each other by a matter of months). She's grown into a fabulous woman with a terrific husband who takes such good care of her. You'd love to see them together - they're so much in love!

How I wish you hadn't left this life - so sick for so long - and still no cure! Are you kidding me? I remember Dad and I hoping beyond hope that we'd wake up one morning while you were sick and see a headline in the paper "Cancer cure found!" But that didn't happen - and it's still not happening. All the lives lost, especially yours and Dad's, just doesn't seem fair.

Mom, I found the man of my dreams, a sailor from the Kesselring Site of all places, about 21 years ago. In fact, we just passed our 18th wedding anniversary this week! You would love him - he's so much like Dad - must be the whole military thing. And because Don and I are in the family 'homestead,' the memories of our intact family come rushing at me as we continue to renovate the place, room by room. Phil's bedroom is now the most awesome bathroom.

Speaking of baby brother Philip, he's living the good life with his two great kids, Jack and Maggie Jane (your namesake) in Rutland. We don't see each other too often, but when we do it's all about quality time, especially with the kids.

So as this Mother's Day approaches, I look back at the time that has passed by since you've been gone. I remember with love the good times we all had as a family - at camp, at the track and at the homestead, and I know that you are my Guardian Angel looking down from above. Miss you, Mom.