Thinking of Mom

My mom and I at Monet's home in Giverny, France.

Actress Sally Field claimed, “A mother is not someone you lean on.  A mother is someone who makes leaning unnecessary.”   I once told my mom that Field’s character on the television program, Brothers & Sisters, reminded me of her.  Field portrayed Nora Walker, a strong and loving mother, greatly concerned in the lives of her children.  My mom embodied all of these qualities and so many more.

She continues to inspire me every single day.  She had so many passions in life.  Family and friends were always her top priority.  Of course she absolutely loved teaching art, and all of her other interests found their way into the classroom.  Her love for travel inspired new projects to share with students each year.  She was constantly learning something new to become a better teacher.

One of our last conversations included sharing different project ideas.  She helped me brainstorm for an upcoming lesson, while writing down plans for her own students.  I remember her great enthusiasm that day.  Her passion for teaching never wavered.  I hope to one day become the kind of teacher both of my parents inspired.

I wish I could share all of the joys and struggles of teaching art with my mom.  Fortunately, I have a great family and supportive friends to lean on, but I am also comforted in knowing my mom instilled so much of herself in me, that leaning may indeed be unnecessary. 

Below are images of my mom's artwork: