When we sat down to think about what date we would choose for our wedding, one month stood out. By a very happy coincidence two extraordinary women, our moms, both pillars of their families were born in February.


The late, incomparable Catalina D. Hernandez and the indominable Agustina “Tina” R. De Leon were both born within a day of each other February 20 and February 21. We thought what a lovely way to celebrate these two beloved mothers. Their resourcefulness, strength and dignity helped define our respective families. Both of these amazing women left home in their teens. One to start her family and the other to enter nursing school. Both dealt with hardships, loss, and challenges in their early home lives. And both worked tirelessly to ensure their children had better lives than they themselves did.


My mother, affectionately known as Catie, was the heart of our family. Her quiet way of caring for others, devoting herself to family, her many teachings including not to judge others callously or to try any food at least once are carried proudly within her family today. Always an advocate for children not only did she raise her own, she selflessly raised several of her grandchildren and advocated on behalf of countless children in her community. Married to her beloved husband Victoriano for over 60 years; her warmth, wisdom, devotion and the best hugs ever are deeply missed.


Willie’s mother, Tina, is a firebrand that left home at 16, petitioned the Mexican government to sponsor her nursing education, and journeyed alone to the US where she reluctantly but happily married the love of her life Eusebio. Once here, she dedicated herself to raising her two sons. Leaving work for seven years to ensure she guided her boys’ early lives. After, she re-entered the workforce taking all types of work from making tortillas, prepping bricks for construction sites, and sanitizing nursing homes. Her grit and determination are inspirational.


We celebrate these two wonderful influences in our lives and chose February 22, 2025 to officially join our two families in their honor.