During my teen years in the ’60s and ’70s, my mom and I butted heads over many things. We were both strong women, after all. She used to say I always asked ‘Why?’ to everything. But in the end, we became best friends! She encouraged me to think for myself (don’t just follow the crowd); to learn how to do things myself, rather than hire someone (‘THAT’S how you make money!’); to stand up for myself and what I believed in! And kindness. These lessons have served me well over the years.”
— Mari H. in San José, Costa Rica
“I never saw my mother get angry or raise her voice. Twice, when grocery shopping and different cashiers were being disrespectful to customers, my mother said, with her usual kindness, ‘Honey, are you having a bad day?’ Each time, the cashier apologized for their behavior and had a smile and kind words when we left.”
— Steven V. in Paso Robles, California
“My mother was what they all called a doozy. A little wild and a lot of fun, and loved to talk to everyone. She wore hats every day for her last 40 years or so, all decorated with her favorite silk flowers. After her stroke, to get her spirits up, I asked her to decorate some hats for the nursing home ladies for Mother’s Day. She was the belle of the ball, handing them all out. Now, every year, in her honor, my chapter of Red Hat sisters collects hats from local thrift stores, and gets together and does the same for a nursing home in our community.”
— Candace W. in Port St. Lucie, Florida
“My mom made me an Easter basketevery year until I was 49 years old. When I turned 50, I was expecting an Easter basket, as I had gotten every year since childhood. But nooo! I did not get one! So, I called her and said, ‘Mom, where’s my Easter basket? Did you forget?’ She says, ‘No, you are just wayyy too old for an Easter basket now.’ My response was, ‘Couldn’t you at least wait until I was 50!’ We both laughed so hard we were in tears. I plan on giving my grandchildren one until they’re 50!”
— Billie J. in Atlanta, Georgia
