Today at 12:00 p.m., my mother, 85 years old, died. It wasn't sudden. I knew it was coming. She has been in a steady decline for the past few years and it accelerated in October. They told us 6 months. She made it 8. The last time I saw her was in February for her 85th birthday. It wasn't pretty. My brothers and sisters kept me up to date the past few days. God bless them for being there. She lived in Wisconsin. They all said there was no reason for me to come up. Be there for your daughter. That's what she would of wanted. To tell the truth, I didn't want to go and see her because I want to remember the mom that cheered for me, spanked me, yelled at me, taught me, guided me,loved me. That's what I got.

So tomorrow, when I'm sitting in the Swamp, I'll be crying for two reasons. One, for the start of a unknown future that will be great. And the second of a life well spent.

So in honor of my mom, spend time dancing, walking and reading with your loved ones.

God Bless you, Mardy Party!