Mom...

Mother's Day is tomorrow.  This will be my first Mother's Day without my Mom.  In the past, I have always enjoyed buying my Mom flowers, a beautiful plant, or a special moisturizing collection from Sephora for her.

About a week after my Mom passed away, I called a good friend that I had been friends with for so long and knew my Mom well.  She listened to me break down, telling her of all the simple memories that were flooding me now.  My heart was breaking and the tears rushed down as I recalled little memories: holding hands, walking into the drugstore in Casper, Wyoming, with her, she would buy me a little treat.  Making sure I had my first day of school outfit all ready, that I was ready to begin my school year with a new lunch box in hand, hair done; I was prepared.  I remember her always making a hot breakfast for me before school: eggs, oatmeal, pancakes.  She wanted me to have a full belly so I could concentrate at school.  I realized as I told my friend of these memories that they were personal moments, treasures, that I, as a little girl, shared with my Mom.  No one else.  No one knew me, little Amy, like she did....  Those memories are now held in my heart.  I hope to share some beautiful memories with my daughter, as I hope someday that she sees and feels how much I cared for her as my Mom did for me. 

Thank you Mom for those wonderful memories.  For caring for me.  I miss you.  Love, your daughter, Amy   

The Mother's heart is  the child's schoolroom.  -Henry Ward Beecher

The Hunger Games Trilogy by Suzanne Collins

This trilogy was so exciting.  I stayed up to one or two in the morning reading the books.  I love the character of Katniss.  She's reserved, always questioning authority, rising up to use her intuitive skills and knowledge in hunting and survival.  Gale and Peeta, both have enduring qualities too.  Gale is strong in mind and body, balks at the Capitol, and is loyal to Katniss and his family.  Peeta is the public speaker, who tells Katniss, "I don't want to be just another piece in their games."  Although in the movie, they portrayed him as weak and a diminutive soul compared to Katniss.  That's Hollywood.

Katniss tells her story of the dystopian society that makes children participate in a reality TV bloodbath.  All 12 districts are to pay for their rebellious acts against the capital.  I found it interesting how much of the Capitol in the trilogy parallels our society today... the fascination with reality TV and how far and out of hand it is. 

Other great characters in the books that leave a lasting impression: Cinna, Haymitch, Effie Trinkett, Rue, Prim. 

Caution:  Although this is a young adult series, I don't recommend it for tweens that are still emotionally immature.  There's a lot of violence.

I rate it:  5 stars!  *****