Happy birthday in heaven Mom.

Mothers, we are an imperfect lot save but one thing – love. Every child is different as every mother is different, but love is what makes us whole. If your child knows they are loved, you have succeeded. At least in my humble opinion.

I have spent the last year doing research on my mother’s grandmother. I chose her because we knew so little about Suzanne Vienot. My studies also included the time period in which she lived. Of course then that would inform me about the life of her other grandmother, Susan Gormley.

My mother didn’t get to know either of her grandmothers. Both of them died after giving birth. Both of her grandfathers had also died before my mother was born, but that’s a different story.

Suzanne Vienot (Reynolds)

Great-Grandmother (Gormley) Kerlin

Because of my research I feel a particular kinship to both these women and in turn to all the women that have come before me. I never knew my mother’s mother, she died young as well. I grew up knowing my Dad’s mother.

Margaret (Reynolds) Kerlin

Ida (Costelli) Benning

Then there’s my mom. The things she taught me are invaluable. I think I mostly appreciate her positive outlook. “Oh quit your whining,” “There but for the grace of God go I,” “Count your blessings,” the list goes on and on. She never let life’s trials get her down. There was always something positive to find, but not in a pollyannaish sort of way – she was very much a realist. That was the real beauty of her being. I carry that with me always.

On one occasion a when friend from college came to visit, he said to my mother, “You’re just like Barbara.” My mother promptly corrected him.

“No, Barbara’s just like me.” A good laugh followed.

Getting my portrait done by Hela Bailin.

Mom pretending to play the piano with me at her side.

I’d love to be able to post a newer photo of my mom but a lot of the ones I have she’s making faces, which tells you a little more about her.

There’s another woman that I would be remiss to leave out; Aunt Mary. While she didn’t have children of her own she did have twenty nieces and nephews and we loved her as much as our own mothers.

Aunt Mary showing Mike how to play Under the Double Eagle

Thank you to all the mothers out there – you are appreciated!