My mom doesn’t like to draw a lot of attention. In fact, she probably would tell me to forego a blog post in her honor, but she’s poured into me over the years, and I think it’s important I publicly share how special she is to me. Moms have a way of trying to minimize the truth when the attention turns toward them. It’s humility, which is a good thing, but there’s also a time to receive recognition and honor. I love you, Mom.

The truth is…she has loved me when I was unloveable.

The truth is…she has taught me when I didn’t want to learn.

The truth is…she gave me pieces of herself even when I didn’t ask.

The truth is…she sacrificed her own needs for mine.

The truth is…she took on much of my hurt and pain.

The truth is…she drove me countless miles, waited for me countless hours, and fixed me countless meals.

The truth is…she stood by my side even when I felt alone.

The truth is…she faced me with the truth when I didn’t want to hear it.

The truth is…she listened to my dreams and encouraged (and challenged) me with her words.

The truth is…she gave me a firm foundation of motherhood on which to build my family.

The truth is…she wasn’t perfect and never pretended to be. She tried to be the best mom she could be. And in my opinion, she was – and is – the best.

Thanks, Mom. And HAPPY BIRTHDAY!