In the most ironic of ways, Galavante exists today because of my Mom. When I was a kid, I could never sit still. I always wanted to be learning, exploring, playing, going somewhere — anywhere. I had endless energy, which was a nightmare for my Mom, who after working 10+ hours and driving 2+ hours back and forth to the city, just wanted some peace and quiet. Her constant reprimand to me was, “Can you just sit still and stop gallivanting all the time?” Well, many decades later, the answer is still no.

What has changed though, is acceptance, on both sides of the relationship.  I would venture to say my Mom admires that restlessness, that is actually my current-day ambition. I know it was challenging for my Mom to understand why I would leave a place like Blackstone, when I worked in finance, to start a business. That was a clear path to what life and success would be. I mean, let’s face it, I think everyone thought I had a psychotic break with reality and would be back in finance by the time I graduated from business school. It was not however, my path. There have been stumbles along the way, but instead of saying I told you so, my Mom has been there to prop me up, and encourage me to keep going.

So Mom, this one’s for you, this Mother’s Day. Thank you for supporting my dreams and my success.

Wishing you and all your Moms the celebration you all deserve.  Let’s not make this a day.  Let’s not make this a month, but rather, let’s make it a lifetime of celebrating Mom.  Buy her the special jewelry.  Take her on that lifetime trip. We’ll never regret it.

All the Best,