"And they're off!"

May marks the most celebrated event in the Commonwealth. By the time you read this, Derby will be in the past, and the drama, pageantry and hype will be behind us. As much as we love Derby, we're as excited that May marks the beginning of spring and summer. Frankly, there is no better time to enjoy our fresh, healthy and home made fare than the warmer, outdoor months.

May is also important because it hosts another of our most treasured celebrations: Mother's Day. My mom's birthday is May 1, right at the peak of Derby madness. More years than not, I have woken in a panic realizing that I did everything right to get through Derby and all of our catering, only to have forgotten to call my mom and wish her Happy Birthday. I was raised Catholic — we specialize in guilt — and so I would worry for days trying to come up with a good excuse before making the belated birthday call home.

Two years ago, I lost my mom suddenly. This year, even though I won't have to worry about missing her birthday, it seems that it is the most important thing on my mind.

In honor of my mom, I want to wish all mothers a very Happy Mother's day. There is no greater transformation in nature than when a young woman becomes a mom. There is something hardwired in you that changes everything, and creates this wonderful force of love, nurturing and protection. It is the hardest and most thankless job bar none. But take heart moms: you do such great work raising our sons and daughters, and there is not one of us who doesn't owe everything we are to you. I hope my mom can hear me this Mother's Day and know that I am the man I am because of her love and devotion.

Mark