Happy Birthday, to the most influential woman in my life - my mom.

The older I get, the more I realize how much my mom and I are a like.  Now, that might bother some people - to be like there mom.  Not me.  As a matter of fact, there are a few areas where I wish I was more like my mom.

When I think of my mom's best qualities, I first think of how she gives people the benefit of the doubt.  She has granted that luxury to me, personally, for as long as I can remember.  Even if she doesn't agree with someones actions, she tries to see their side..the reason people are the way they are..and grants them grace.

My mom is fun...and quirky.  She buys my kids things like candy in the shape of "mouse teeth"...or little reindeer that "poop" Dr. Pepper flavored candies that look like turds.

She knows how to have a good time, and sees to it that others have a good time too.

She loves to travel.  I am sure that is where I get it.

She knows that a clean conscious and heart is better than a clean house any day,

but a clean house is nice too.

She knows the tragedy of loosing a loved one.

She sensitive and strong.

Her heart can ache for a stranger, but she doesn't take shit from anyone.

Because of me, she had to grow up too fast, and I sometimes mourn her late childhood and early adulthood for her.

She has never made me feel that I wasn't worth it.

She has taught me to listen to my heart, that is where truth dwells.

She has taught me, it is what it is.

She has been there for me at a moments notice, and always when I need it most.

She gives me the gift of unconditional love and accepts my dreams, my fears, my hopes, my anger, and my tears.

She knows it is not the things in life that are important, but who you share your life with that is.

Recently I was in a crowd of people with my daughter.  We were near a family that acted in ways I couldn't even wrap my mind around, laced with anger and hatred toward one another.  I told my daughter, "see how lucky you are - you don't get to choose the family you are born into"...

I am lucky.  I am lucky my mom is mine.  I wouldn't want another.

Happy Birthday, Mom!

You're the best!