Welcome to Milkweed and Monarchs. I’m Dawn Klem, and today, I share the story of Theona—a neighbor who became family, a mentor who shaped my perspective, and a woman whose simple, steadfast way of life left an unforgettable mark on mine.

When Craig and I lived in North Yarmouth, Maine, Theona was more than just the woman next door. She was a true Mainer—resilient, resourceful, and deeply connected to the land she called home. In her tiny three-room house, she raised seven children, tended breathtaking gardens, and lived with a quiet strength that I came to admire.

Our friendship grew through daily interactions—walking my dog past her home, sharing stories, and eventually trusting her with our beloved golden retriever while we traveled to Romania to adopt our daughters. She was one of the first people to welcome them home, and for a time, they even called her Mamaya, the Romanian word for grandmother.

This episode is about the lessons Theona taught me—about simplicity, loyalty, and the beauty of a life well-lived. It’s about cinnamon rolls that never quite taste the same when made by someone else, the wisdom of a woman who never needed much, and the enduring power of human connection.

Join me as I reflect on the years spent next door to Theona, the moments that shaped our bond, and the lasting impact of a neighbor who became so much more.