My mother encountered many challenges over the course of her life, passing along the most entertaining, emotional and inspirational stories I can imagine, and influencing me not only as a woman, but as a writer. How we communicated with her was not always easy, but her faith, and the importance of us having a strong belief in Jesus Christ, was always an important part of her teachings. Mom always encouraged us to be strong and independent, able to take care of ourselves and never relying on anyone else. Earning a high school education, a college degree and a job was at the top of her must-have list. She always stressed the importance of family and unity, especially among sisters, brothers, grandparents, aunts, uncles, and possibly cousins. I remember these teachings well. Challenges, Challenges, Challenges on Mill Street is the true story of my remarkable mother and her journey through it all to make us who we are, today and forever.