Maureen Dowd has returned to the pages of the NYT after taking time off for book leave. Sadly her return column addresses the death of her mother, who was a frequent figure in her work (and had topped MEL numerous times to boot). We would have heralded MoDo's return in any case, but this column is truly a marvel, a sweet, funny and inspiring celebration of an obviously remarkable woman. We teared up, we admit it. MoDo, we're so sorry for your loss but if we may say so we're so glad for the 97 years of accumulated warmth and wisdom your mom shared with you. Thank you in turn for sharing it with us.

A Woman Who Found a Way to Write [NYT]
Margaret Dowd, 97; Font of Advice [WaPo]