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A Tribute To My Mom
by
Pam Wallwork Swain

Picture
 When I was about 9 years old my mother Lucy was going to Chicago to visit Auntie Ida.   I was always Mama's "Darling Bebe" being the youngest at the time, I was sick with the thought of being without my mother for any length of time.

As the days approached I would begin to gather her articles of clothing as if I were building a nest.  When the day arrived for her to depart tears streamed down my checks.  I went to the airport with my mother to say good bye, but being the type of mother she is, she had thought it was best to take me with her.  Suddenly sadness turned to happiness. 

I was so excited because I have never been on an airplane before and even more so because I would be with her.

When we arrived in Chicago I was reunited with my father, William.  It didn't take long for me to realize how much I had missed having a father in my life. I suddenly became daddy's little girl.  I felt as if we were a "real" family once again.

I could tell that my parents still were very much in love and that opened the door for them to communicate once again.

I am grateful that my mother had the wisdom to know what her children needed best in life.  I was told by one of my sister's that my mother said "had it not been for Pam going to Chicago with me your father and I may have not gotten back together". 

The road trip back to California was the best!  It was just three of us and since I didn't have any clothes when my mom decided to take me with her I got to go on a shopping spree!  What female wouldn't want that?

I have picked up some of my mother's wonderful traits, from looking for the best sale at the market, to wearing animal print, sparkly clothing and she loves her jewelry.   As a matter of fact, my husband and some of my siblings tease me by calling me"Little Lucy".  That's a compliment to me, I hope I have become half the woman she is.  Because of her I am a better person.  My mother has been the foundation of love, understanding and strength for me.  Thank you mom for all your sacrifices that you had made for me and my sisters and for teaching me many valuable lessons .  I love you!

Pam and Mark Swain Family

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