Happy Mother’s Day to all the dear mothers out there.  No matter what the attached modifier may be–whether young, old, grand, great-grand, or in-law–may you all be appreciated and honored by those you have nurtured, by those whose hearts you have touched, by those whose lives you have helped mold into meaningful shape.  May women who mothered the children of others be included today as well, because their love and support may be equally powerful and equally cherished.

My mother, as a young woman.  Because she’s smart, funny, warm and loving, she tends to be surrounded by young friends who wish she were their mother.  I am glad to share her, but even more glad to be able to call her my own Mama.

Mama, in 2005, with my daughter, who made me a proud Mama, too.