Illa - the Godess of Wine

Illa is one of the 'Hail Mary's' that I love. She has already appeared in this blog under another pseudonym. One of the features I adore about the Hispanic culture, is the multitude of names and identities individuals can assume. One can use either their mother's or father's surnames and adopt any one of their given baptismal names; first, middle or even confirmation, for public or private use.

Not all tea parties serve up tea. Wine is very popular, too, but Ilia has that venture already sewn up. She's the entrepreneur among us, and what she sets her mind to, turns golden. With her success, comes greater responsibilities, but she has the strength of character and the financial acumen to gracefully execute them . Hers is the single-handed success story of a woman's determination to live her own life, on her own terms. Colombian born and educated, she came to the US to work and create a new life for herself. As the eldest of a large group of siblings, she had no illusions about what child-rearing responsibilities entailed. She began her oddessy in Boston. It would lead her to earning everything that she owns, without screwing or manipulating people in the process.

Whenever I have one of our sleepovers at Illa's, I come home feeling nurtured and ever more comfortable in my own skin. We have been friends with each other for decades. She has been a loyal, compassionate and supportive companion. She knows my story, as well as anyone, and has participated in my journey from mental illness to emotional wellness as it unfolded. She's a great listener and adviser.

Her life rarely takes her north of Boston these days, where I live. Those earlier years, when we both lived in Brookline, were fun because being invited to Illa's home, meant meeting the most interesting mix of talented artists and musicians from various (South) American countries. The mix of Spanish and English was exotic to me. They'd be music, dancing and great food and wine. My kind of party! Through Illa, I became one of the international set and was introduced to the Hispanic culture.

Easter weekend, we had what has become a ritual whenever we get together. Illa knows her wines and picks some of the most delicious varieties from her store, Solera, to share. What a beautiful name for a wine boutique. It conjures up images of magnificent sunny days made all the more special because of the diversity of countries represented, as we solve and discuss our personal and political ideologies. Naturally, along with the wines is the accompanied bounty of delicious foods. I tease her and call her the 'Costco Queen'. She laughs heartily because it is the truth.

Time has been good to us and our friendship. It is like a fine wine that is appreciated more because it has become more satisfying and refined as we age. Gone are the days of the overflowing parties but we manage, nonetheless, to dance and sway to her endless collection of music. Her mix includes every genre of music known to mankind. OK, maybe not Gregorian Chant, but I wouldn't be a bit surprised if she had an album of this period music stashed away somewhere in her magnificent collection.

For me, going to her home, driving deep into a remote neighborhood of Boston, is a healing experience. I'm in wonder of her boundless vision and energy. She is the most confident, self-made and independent woman that I know. She shares her largess with those she loves. I'm blessed to be one of those.

More to follow because the plan is to visit with Illa this weekend. Remember love always wins. Friends are the family we chose and who chose us, no matter what cards are dealt.