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Jen Baden Howard's avatar

Just the most beautiful essay, Dina—and tribute to your beautiful mother (beauty and love, all around). You have captured so much here of all that your mother created in both your home and hearts at Thanksgiving (I could picture the scene, and smell the delicious home cooking!) that will resonate with so many, despite being so personal and such a privilege to read. What a joy having your "forever co-chef" in Max, too, and all these memories that are EVERYTHING (the recipe planning scribbles almost made me hyperventilate just looking at that them, like something from The Bear!😂 I. Could. Never!). So wonderful that your mother cooked alongside you, even from a distance, guiding you through it all. And that photo with her 🐶 is beyond beautiful. ❤️

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Dina Alvarez's avatar

The worst part of all of this is my deep regret at never having met her and the best part is that you were blessed with a mother who exuded loving kindness every step of the way for you. A most beautiful thing and am so happy she was and continues to be such a beautiful part of your life. So much so, that your writing shows every element of you and her combined. Beautifully written Dina. I know how much she is enjoying these thoughtful tributes and life lessons you share here….xx so glad we met.

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Patina with Dina Aronson's avatar

Well I think that might just be the most incredibly special compliment I've ever received about my writing- thank you for that, my friend. As I've said to you, she would have absolutely adored you, much like I do...x

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K. Morgan's avatar

Thank you for sharing these lovely memories. The holidays are always replete with nostalgia and such keen sensory recollection of smells, feelings, and tastes. Happy Thanksgiving to you and yours, Dina. Grateful to know you and always appreciative of your gift of sharing!

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Patina with Dina Aronson's avatar

So very true...

And thank YOU, Kim, for your kindness and support- grateful to know you too, and wishing you a beautiful holiday season!

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suzanne sandbank's avatar

Happy Thanksgiving to you and your family! Grateful for you! Loved seeing the photos of you and the boys when they were young.

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Patina with Dina Aronson's avatar

Thank you, Suzanne! I feel the same, and hope you had a beautiful day! x

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Skylar Liberty Rose's avatar

Always such a beautiful read, Dina. I love this, and the photo of your mom and her dog is particularly lovely. I can feel her warmth and kind energy, which you also have in abundance. Happy Thanksgiving, friend xx

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Patina with Dina Aronson's avatar

Thank you so much for the kind words, Skylar- she truly exuded those qualities, and she made everyone around her feel special. So thankful that the universe saw fit to put us in each other's paths, my friend- I appreciate you!

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Patina with Dina Aronson's avatar

Your words always touch me, Jenni- thank you always for reading and feeling with me! And fyi, those notes and scribbles make me hyperventilate a little these days too! Not sure how I did it!! xox

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