My Favorite Day

 Hey Neighbor!

Welcome back to THE NEIGHBORHOOD!  This week’s story is about a magical, snowy day in NYC.  

The snow is doing that perfect thing where it falls quietly and it covers the city in a white blanket before it inevitably becomes a slushy, grey mess. 

As kids, this is thrilling! 

A SNOW DAY!! 

For me, I am excited but disappointed. 

My mom is supposed to come see me perform in my first National Tour at our only stop in Pennsylvania. 

This is a show that I am incredibly proud of and it’s with people that I adore. 

What a bummer that mom can’t see it now and there is no rescheduled date.  

In true mom form, she hops on the train to come into the city for lunch!  My mom is one of those special people who will literally fly across the country for her kids.  I know.  Because she’s done it for me. 

One time, she flies to Tennessee at 5 AM to see me perform in “James and the Giant Peach.” 

We have lunch afterwards, she gives me a kiss goodbye, makes a sign of the cross on my forward, and immediately goes back on the airport to get home to dinner....in Philadelphia. 

The best mom ever.  

Mom travels into the city, and we meet right by Central Park.  She says, “we are going to have lunch at the Central Park Boathouse.”  

It’s sheer magic.  We are seated by the window and we eat lunch overlooking the most beautiful snowfall over the lake. 

Then we go for a walk through the park.  We talk about my dreams and goals.  She supports me and encourages me with every part.  I am completely at ease and feel so loved and grateful for this woman.  A woman who I look up to, and want to be when I grow up.  

After our adventure, she kisses me goodbye, and puts a sign of the cross on my forehead and I make my way back uptown.  

When I get back to my apartment, I have an e-mail. 

It’s from a theatre and they are offering me a dream role in a dream show! 

WHAT?!?!  I immediately call my mom because she is always the first one I call when this happens.  We do the same thing that we always do...EEEEEEEEE!!!! 

Then she exclaims “My daughter, the actress!”  It’s a thrilling moment that is etched in my memory forever.  

Mary Agnes Ostick, my mother.  The best one ever! 

Okay, Neighbor, your turn.  Do you have a day that you would like to re-live?  Who do you admire in your life?  

I look forward to hearing your stories.  

I’ve Got You in My Pocket,

Jackie Ostick 

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