Walking with maternal Instincts: Mommy & Me Stories

Krysta Anderson, LifestyleReporter

For Mother's Day, we sat with some mothers and daughters to speak about the wonderful relationship that they share. And there is no better way to unwind than at a spa. Location was Adam and Eve Day Spa and, with cocktails on hand, courtesy of Baileys Irish Cream and Regina Gillings for make-up, we delved into the relationship that these women share with the most important woman in their lives - their mom.

Director of Adam and Eve Spa, and mother, Kimisha Walker, declared that she is the woman she is today because of two amazing women in her life - her mother, Yvonne Fairman, and aunt, Ambassador Madge Barrett.

Raised by both 'Momsie' and 'Aunt Madge' as she calls them, she tells Outlook, "I love my mother dearly. She's the most loving, Spirit-filled, supportive, humble, understanding, gentle, yet by far the strongest woman I know. She wore both hats of mother and father and never lacked in any. Even with what life threw at her, she smiled through the storm and stood with integrity and unwavering commitment to motherhood."

Fortunately for Walker, she gets to keep her mother close to home, as she actually lives with her. "I couldn't ask for a better arrangement. Communication is key in anything, and I share a lot with my mom. We have heart-to-heart conversations on a regular basis and sometimes she just holds me and prays. And when I'm sick, she rolls out the red-carpet treatment."

Her aunt, she says, was instrumental in her growth and success, setting the pace in keeping everyone grounded and structured. "She taught me perfect etiquette, to always be polite and respectful, encouraged me to never to settle, never envy anyone, and to always allow the fashionista in me to shine." Barrett is kept close and dear, integral in all the major family events such as holidays and birthdays.

watching her grow

Fairman took us down memory lane with the story of the day Walker was born, referring to her as 'reddybugs' because of how light-skinned she was. "She's a humble, kind and very genuine person. She's always going the extra mile for everyone. I've seen it in the way she cares for the home, consistently providing unconditional love for her family and friends. She is also a structured businesswoman who wants the best for her staff and customers. I've been blessed with watching her grow and walking her through the different compartments of life. Seeing her blossoming into a magnificent young woman speaks volumes for me."

Barrett explained that it is Walker's drive and passion that are most admirable, "She is not only beautiful on the outside, she is a boiling pot of charisma on the inside. She fought the odds and keeps on going, which is very inspirational. She exudes very rare qualities, being able to balance home, family, friends, work and, yet, she still remains determined and focused. I love her as if she were my very own."

Walker explains that life with her mother and aunt raising her has taught her to never allow its turns, bumps, and precipices to derail her from her ultimate goal or purpose. Having practised it, she knows that a family that works together stays together. "I remember the tenderness of being tucked into bed and saying my prayers. Family is first for me. A strong family unit, based on good morals and faith, is very important, and I'm just blessed with a wonderful marriage, beautiful kids, a loving mom, and supportive aunt."

krysta.anderson@gleanerjm.com