Thank You Usain Bolt

Usain will be the headliner at The Festival of Excellence scheduled for June 11 at The University of Toronto. Because of him there will again be world class track and field in a land where this was once the norm. And yes Usain is the ultimate one man show, but it is a pleasure to ride his coat tail on any day.

And lucky me that day is in nine. However I doubt that I am the most grateful person in the GTA. No I'm not. That distinction belongs to Cathy Felicien, or as I like to call her "Mother-Dear".

I was just talking to M.D and my girl is crunk, let me tell you. Cathy is so ready for this meet to pop off and the chance to "see her Pedeet run with Ossain from Jamaica!".

Me: "Mom, you mean Usain"

M.D: "Yes Ossain, that's what I said..."

Me: "No, no, mom it's more like 'You-sane'...never mind just call him Bolt!"

(Note: Usain is way easier than Perdita, and I can imagine--no make that bore witness to the countless incorrect ways that have been attempted to say my own unique name.)

****

After that exchange and the realisation that my mom's beautiful St. Lucian accent need not be tweaked (after all I am still her "Pedeetah"), she announces that she has taken that entire day off work.

Wow, this lady is serious.

Me: "It's a night meet. You can have your cheese and eat it too Mother".

M.D: "Huh?!"

Me: (To myself) "Ya that was a dumb thing to say."

****

Her taking the day off work reminds me of how my mom used to be during my elementary and high school days. Wholly devoted to the cause of supporting her daughter and cheering her on 100%.

...Even if that meant going down the road of not being able to provide her food and shelter. But that is how devoted my M. D is--not even a paycheck will keep her from me! And I love her for it.

I just hope she doesn't resurrect the 1998 front to back: "Go Perdita Go....Love Mom" Tee.

Gulp.

Thanks Usain!

Perdita :)

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