Naomi Isaka
I've always been so inspired by her story, that before graduating I had the opportunity to do an internship for the summer in the same city where it all started. I have always been independent, but navigating a foreign city on my own was a whole new level for me. I was able to find the exact apartment she lived in, the streets she used to walk every day, and the landmarks around the city she would always talk about. It was such a surreal experience for me, I almost felt as if I were retracing her steps. It gave me a whole new appreciation and respect for my mom, and the journey she went through so many years before. Long story short, I'm so thankful for my moms adventurous spirit, for not only giving me life (obviously), but allowing me to channel that adventurous side from her and giving me some of my most cherished memories and a second place to call home.
Julie Arszmann
Elizabeth Paulino Londono
She moved to Los Angeles California. Where years later met and married my father. After years of trying to make things work with him she decided she would continue her pregnancy without him and I was born in 1968. She was both father and mother. Hard working, honest, faithful to God. Always a smile on her face and loving arms to embrace me. She remarried and gave me a little brother when I was 9 years. She loved us unconditionally, gave us what she could. Taught us right from wrong. Taught us to love, smile, laugh and grow spiritually, mentally, and to never give up.
She taught me gift of hospitality, to show my love to others in my cooking and to always have a place at my table for family and friends.
Although the today she is not with me anymore physically, I carry her in me. My smile, the love I share with others around me, though my kids, thru my cooking, everything I do shenis with me. I want to honor her and God thru the life I live