Although she has appeared on this blog many times, I would like to pay a special tribute to my mother today. While I cherish the gifts I have that can be traced to my father, I have no doubt that it is my mother I have to thank for those traits that have most contributed to my success in life. My mind for engineering, physical dexterity, head for business, eye for beauty, capacity for work, and desire to forever improve, all come straight from my mother. All mothers give life to their offspring. Mine gave me a bounty of gifts for which I am eternally grateful. From the toddler above to the octogenarian below she is a rare beauty and wonderful mother.  I am looking forward to her visit next weekend.