One year ago today my brothers, sisters, and I lost our lovely Mother, Mary Pat, to cancer. It doesn't feel like one year has passed, and I still think about her every day, reflexively picking up the phone to call her, or wanting to send an email. I can no longer do those things, but she is with me in my heart wherever I go. She was always the first to offer encouragement in any endeavor I chose to do, and always told me how lucky I was that my "hobby" was also my livelihood. She was my greatest supporter, a great friend, and never afraid to hoist a few Guinness. I love you, and miss you so much, Mom. So the point of all this, dear reader, is why don't you stop what you're doing right now, and call your Mom. Tell her how much she means to you, tell her that you're thinking about her, and that you're going to take her out to lunch next week, next month, or as soon as you get the chance. Take her to a movie, send her flowers, send her pictures of the grandkids. Whatever it is that you hold dear about your Mom, take stock in it right now, and let her know. Thanks and take care. -Hurl