I grew up in Mill Valley, up on a hill that overlooked the whole town. There were only three houses there at the time. Mom used to call us home with a cow bell — we had free run of the meadows and woods that surrounded our home. And the running was great in my PF Flyers, but I digress. Mom took me for a walk, long ago, along that old dirt road that was lined with Eucalyptus and Pine trees. I can still hear their lovely “shimmering” sound as the sun and wind would play with their long, slender leaves. She picked up the little acorns and their “tops” and handed me a couple, saying, “These are angels’ caps. They’re very special.” To this day, just smelling one brings back the most wonderful time in my life. So free. So in love with life and with my Mom, who made everything so special for me. That was the Mom I wanted to be some day…

Last week, I received a card from one of my daughters.  It read, “Mom, just because I love you – thanks for being there through everything.” And nestled inside — were three angels’ caps. Thank you God, for this blessing.