Happy Mother’s Day

This is the first year in a while that I haven’t traveled to California to spend the day with my mother. I am feeling slightly sad and a little guilty. I consider myself lucky to have had my mother, Joyce. She always created opportunities for me and encouraged me to pursue my dreams.

She was one of the only mothers on my suburban block who had a full-time job. Most of my friends’ mothers stayed home and took care of the house. 

When I was young and wanted to be a writer, my mother supplied me with paper, pens and an endless supply of books. She instilled her love of Dorothy Eden, Phyllis Whitney and Jane Austen on me. I read those books early as child, savoring how the authors could create these worlds and make their characters come to life.

And, then when it came time for college, I was resistant. I wasn’t sure I wanted to go to school but my mother insisted. She wanted to give me the chance that she never had. It was probably the best opportunity I could have had. I pursued journalism and experienced an amazing career — covering everything from landfills to gangs to my favorite, shopping and fashion. All those experiences have allowed me to pursue my lifelong dream of writing fictions. I now have my Antique Hunters Mystery series and many ideas for more. I just wish I hadn’t waited so long.

So, Mom, I owe you a big thank you and wish you a Happy Mother’s Day. And, Happy Mother’s Day to every  mother out there.