Your Mother sounds like a wonderful woman and it's clear that she loves you very much! Your description of her reminded me a lot of my Father, who was forced to be "tough" to survive when he was young. Dad was "gruff" and stern but would give someone he liked the shirt off his back if they needed it. We are so incredibly lucky to have had the good fortune of being born to these kinds of parents. It always amazes me how people who've been through lots of struggles in life can retain their good heart and kindness. That seems like the ultimate success and triumph to me. Thanks for this post, it made me smile! Enjoy the rest of your week.