The Gift by Darlene Lamb

There is just over two weeks until our wedding and as expected there is a generous size list of things to complete. But the world stood still for me last week when my Mother passed away. She had just celebrated her 80th birthday a few months ago and although her health had always been a roller coaster, Mom had continually bounced with each set back.
We are grateful that the final illness did not have her lingering in pain and that she was called Home quickly. I am numb with a strange combination of emotions - funerals and weddings don't mix. She was rested in the new dress she had planned to wear to my wedding, it carried a sad sweetness to it.

One of my most poignant memories of my Mom was when she would gather me up and cuddle for a nap on the bed together. I might have been only 3 or 4 years old, but when I close my eyes and remember, it feels like I'm there tucked in her arms again. There has been a fare amount of time this week drawing from that memory and feeling. It's a wonderful spot to take myself back to.

Mother of two, Grand Mother of five, Great Grandmother of four - and she had one true love of her life. Mom is with our Dad again - where she so desperately wanted to be.

Rest now Mom. I love you.

Best Mother's Day Gift

Motherhood. It's a blessing. 

One of the toughest and most rewarding jobs - EVER. 

Being a Mom and Grandma is the best gift I have ever received in my life, hands down. 

I was born to do this and love it all. 

I give thanks to God for this wonderful blessing.

Happy Mother's Day to You.

Santa has a new fashion look.

Santa Claus has a brand new look. 

His diet has been void of cookies since last Christmas Eve, and he's obviously been working hard on his physique. No longer are you able to call him 'old Saint Nick' - he's buff and a fashion trend setter. Gone is the large fur trimmed red coat, pants and hat; Fashion Santa is stepping out in style.

Paul Mason - Fashion Santa

Meet model Paul Mason - a'ka Fashion Santa. The Mississauga native started modeling 30 years ago, and this Christmas marks the second holiday season that he is working with the fashion team at Yorkdale Mall. He sports seasonal fashions from top men's retailers at Yorkdale and poses for selfies with Fashion Santa fans. For each uploaded selfie of Fashion Santa using the hashtag #YorkdaleFashionSanta, the mall is donating $1 to SickKids Hospital.

There are no crying children sitting on his knee or sticky candy canes. Fashion Santa gladly snuggles up with Fido for a puppy selfie shot, while mature women are somewhat giddy as they tuck next to him for a picture. 

Fashion Santa was looking very Vogue when I saw him at the mall on Saturday. I however - was having a bad hair day, so I skipped the opportunity for a selfie. But I love the concept, the excitement around the entire campaign and the charitable donations to SickKids.

Read Fashion Santa's blog here :    

http://www.yorkdale.com/qa-fashion-santa/

And if you are in the Greater Toronto area, stop by and share your naughty/nice list with him.

.......... Fashion Santa's coming to town.