Mama used to sit in her gray chair by the window and sing the song Beautiful Dreamer every day I was there with her after school. She would always tell me stories about our family and what it’s like where they are from. I remember walking with her to the mailbox and she would show me how to put themail in the box. She taught me how to pound nuts with a rock and a hammer. She used to ask me to read to her. I learned a lot from her and I have so many good memories. When I would leave her, she would tell me that I’m her guardian angel. Now she is mine. I love you Mama and I’ll miss you a lot.

My first meeting was just by chance.....she watched me park and asked why I was so late.... she made me even more late than ever.....we talked outside for another half hour....she told me of  her brother Ivan, sister Irma, life as a teacher in her home land at a tender age.She captivated me with stories....including the famous river crossing...As the daughter of a school principal who like her started his career at a tender age of 16, I knew then she was special....to get away I had to say we shall finish up this chat later...I learned that if you need to be some where very soon do not stop to chat you will be late for sure. She never forgot to tell you how she loved her daughters and grandchildren and beamed with pride of their accomplishments. As time went by I learned one day the connection of Auntie Irma and that I knew her daughter for years..Then came the news I am having a 90 th birthday party next year .....my grand children will let you.....really !.....What an awesome Woman she set up her own birthday party but made me promise not to act like I knew....She made an indelible mark on my life.....we both love cooking..codfish cakes and cou cou and codfish ......glad I had to chance to spent such treasured moments....Cry if you want...sing her favorite songs.....but we will never forget Mama.