Carlos, this is such an incredible, moving story -- I was transfixed. You are so talented -- I can't get enough of your stories. Your mom reminds me of my two grandmothers, single moms who wielded immense power against poverty and did whatever they could to feed and provide shelter to their children. I admire what you do and who you are -- and I have no doubt it's her shining through you.

By the way -- all of the roller skate parts of the story -- took me back to the days! ohh they were so good!