"Memories of Momma" — A 71 Day Tribute (Day 32)

MEMORIES of MOMMA*:

I love everything about this picture— Momma's youthfulness, her sassiness. She looks like gold dynamite — 💯!

The diamond cluster ring that Momma is wearing on her left pinkie finger is a ring she gave me quite a few years ago. Back then, I wasn't fond of the style of the ring and since I needed the money at the time, I sold the ring — a choice I regret to this day. I wish I could find this ring and buy it back from the new owner, but it must be long gone at this point.

Morale of the story: save the mementos if you can. And if you can't, hold on to your sweet memories for dear life.

*It's Day 32 of my 71 day photo series in honor of my dear sweet Momma who passed away on 03.21.2016 after a harrowing 71 day health battle. Those 71 days do not define her. Oh no. What defines her — and me — are the incredible 66 years that she lived her life. I hope you enjoy these snapshots of the beautiful moments and memories of her life.

"Memories of Momma" — A 71 Day Photo Tribute (Day 31)

MEMORIES of MOMMA*:

This vintage postcard was written from my Mom to her parents, just shy of her 18th birthday. I'm not sure who the other two women are, but they all look like they're having an incredible time, goofing off and having fun together.

I would give anything to have my Momma around right now and to be able to ask her questions, like what's the background behind this charming little piece of mail.

Makes me wonder if maybe this was her first time going on a trip away from home. I bet my Grandmother was a nervous wreck! It reminds me of my first big trip away from home — to Watertown, New York, during my very early teens. I can't imagine how anxious Momma must've been.

My first trip oversees — solo to Germany — was when I was 16. Looking back, I can't believe my parents let me go, but I'm thankful my Mom realized it would be a good experience for me, though heart-wrenching for her. And that's what mothers do, they help us grow and stand taller and explore this adventure we call life. Moms help us find the wings to soar.

*It's Day 31 of my 71 day photo series in honor of my dear sweet Momma who passed away on 03.21.2016 after a harrowing 71 day health battle. Those 71 days do not define her. Oh no. What defines her — and me — are the incredible 66 years that she lived her life. I hope you enjoy these snapshots of the beautiful moments and memories of her life.

"Memories of Momma" — A 71 Day Photo Tribute (Day 30)

MEMORIES of MOMMA*:

If you've ever wondered why I am obsessed with cats, it's because I grew up with this African lioness in the house. Her name was "Tina" (after Tina Turner), and she was my best friend.

JUST KIDDING. Though I've never met a cat I didn't like, I didn't have the pleasure of meeting this majestic feline that my Momma was holding in this photo dated March 16, 1978. Apparently, it was totally legal back in the day to get your picture taken down at the local mall, posing with a big kitty that could easily rip your face off. Can't blame my Mom though for posing for this picture — we all know I would've done it too!

*It's Day 30 of my 71 day photo series in honor of my dear sweet Momma who passed away on 03.21.2016 after a harrowing 71 day health battle. Those 71 days do not define her. Oh no. What defines her — and me — are the incredible 66 years that she lived her life. I hope you enjoy these snapshots of the beautiful moments and memories of her life.

"Memories of Momma" — A 71 Day Photo Tribute (Day 29)

MEMORIES of MOMMA*:

The year was 1973, two years before Mom and Dad tied the knot. I don't know the history of their engagement or when and how Daddy proposed. I sure wish I could call her right now and ask her all the details. I'm sure she told me once upon a time, but I must've forgotten.

I wonder the circumstances surrounding this vintage photo. If you look closely, there's a "jewelry" sign behind my Dad, and by the looks of the cash register, they were in a store of some sort. Maybe this photo was taken when they went to pick up Mom's engagement ring... maybe not. Who knows. Whatever the situation, they both look happy — and smitten.

*It's Day 29 of my 71 day photo series in honor of my dear sweet Momma who passed away on 03.21.2016 after a harrowing 71 day health battle. Those 71 days do not define her. Oh no. What defines her — and me — are the incredible 66 years that she lived her life. I hope you enjoy these snapshots of the beautiful moments and memories of her life.