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Christos: Mom's the Word
Christos explains why he's so close to his mother.
On one of tonight's episodes, you all met my mom, Aspasia.
She is one mother of a mother.
Born in Greece, she emigrated to America through Ellis Island at age 12. She met her father the first time while arriving in NYC. (He left for America when she was very young to make a living.)
She loves America. She never returned to Greece after leaving over 60 years ago.
I am so a mama's boy. We look and act very much alike.
She's very funny, direct, and likes to be in control. Just like her son.
I would not be where I am today if it wasn't for her.
Throughout my life, all I really did was want to please her.
Do good in school. Be kind and considerate to others. Treat friends like family. And family like friends.
Every big life decision I had to make, she has supported me. Whether it was moving to France, San Francisco, or turning down Harvard biz school, she always trusted I would do the right thing.
My dad died when I was in my 20s, and it was hard on our small family. My mom had to sell the restaurant, and became a nanny to support herself. I would send money home to help, and each time I did it was received with a teary phone call thanking me profusely.Because of my career, she has been able to visit NYC, London, and Paris. Great moments happen and we laugh, but it's always tempered by my dad not being there to enjoy it too.
As I got older, I came out of the closet. It was difficult at first She was very old-school Greek, and had a hard time understanding. She came around. Loves my hubby, Brett. And enjoys coming to California often.
Brett and I are thinking of starting a family together. And my mom could not be more happy to become a yiayia or grandmother.
I know I will be a great parent, because my mom was such a great influence on me.
Mom is getting older, and I do cherish the time we spend with each other.
I realize that this isn't the sexiest blog post ever! But sometimes, it is good to reflect about the good in one's life, and to take a moment to acknowledge what really is important.
And for me, it is Aspasia.
