I want to be just like you...Mom

As a child, teenager and young adult one never fully understands the sacrifices a parent makes. My Mom celebrated her birthday early this month and now more than ever "I Get It!" The unconditional love, the countless dirty diapers and mounds of throw-up, the fact that is very difficult to dress a small child and parents should not be held (totally) responsible for (all) bad hair and mismatched get-ups, putting a career on hold to watch children grow, to nurture them them and try to teach them life's lessons.

I can remember a few of my major breakdowns throughout my adolescence and I am sure there are hundreds more that are fleeting me at this moment. Mom always handled them with grace (and still does for that matter). Sure we had our fair share of arguments and full on hard-headed battles, but I see now that she was right. Watching out for me, protecting me and trying to instill in me the coping mechanisms to be successful in life.Wow, what a job.

Thanks Mom. I appreciate everything you have done and continue to do for me and our family. I want to be just like you when I grow up.  Happy Birthday and many, many more.