About Me

A Tribute to My Mother

My Japanese mother was a war bride. She met and married my father while he was serving with the United States Army in Japan in the early 1950s. When she came to the USA they settled in Washington state. Mom immersed herself in learning a new language and adapting to a whole new culture. Years later she made several trips back to Japan to visit her family, and on one of those trips I had the privilege of traveling with her. I met my grandparents as well as other family members---a highlight was trying on beautiful silk kimonos in my aunt's shop. Mom lovingly and patiently kept my young hands busy, teaching me how to cook, sew, knit, crochet and make origami. She was a very talented woman.  At age 92 she had six children, of which I am the oldest, and 21 grandchildren. She was known to all as Obasan. She is dearly missed! I will always treasure that she taught me origami. I welcome the opportunity to share my love of this craft with you.  

About Me 

I had the privilege to visit my mother's hometown and see all relatives in Japan. What an amazing visit that was. Pictured above is me trying on kimonos in my aunt's shop in Sasebo. I do not speak the language. Mom was so intent on becoming "Americanized" and fitting in after a war with her home country, that sadly she did not teach us her native language. I had to rely on my mother and cousins to interpret. But the love and acceptance I received from of my Japanese family and their friends will stay with me forever. The Japanese people truly make you feel honored. I hope you have the privilege to visit Japan someday and experience it for yourself. The sites are so unique and amazing and the products so beautiful, you will want to bring an extra suitcase carry all your gifts back.

My father was Mexican. He ran away from home when he was young and joined the Army. He became  career military and served as a Drill Sargent. Yes, my siblings and I called him Sir! He was from California and had 4 brothers.  I got to stay with my grandparents one summer and visited my uncles often.  I cherish my Mexican family and my Mexican heritage as well. After meeting and marrying my mother, I was their firstborn. But only by five minutes. I was followed by my twin brother, Sigmund. Why do Mexican/Japanese twins have Swedish names you may be wondering? We were named after dear friends of my parents.

I married a Lithuanian/Ukrainian man.  I guess our three children are an example of the "melting pot" America has become.