I picked her birthday card from Mel and me just a few weeks ago that had two pups on the front and said "Happy Birthday to Mom from the two of us - one you raiised and the other you got by luck!" In reality, I was the lucky one! I got the handsome and talented son who she raised to be warm, caring, loving and passionate about life. But just as importantly, I got a new Mom who was the matriarch of a welcoming and loving family who she taught to respect and care for anyone who crossed her threshold. She was not wealthy by any means so all she had to give were kind words, a loving smile, a warm hug, and assurances that I was family, too. but that was worth more than all the treasures on this earth. I will truly miss seeing Clara sitting by her chair in front of the picture window and hearing her answer the phone "yello!". Life just won't be the same without my other Mom!