Today is the birthday of an amazing woman. Growing up my mom and I didn’t always see eye-to-eye. But I’m so incredibly thankful that I can honestly say she is one of my closest friends. I think I had to grow up a little bit and realize where she was coming from to truly understand the things I never did growing up. Moving out of my parents’ house helped me to see the bigger picture and be able to see the many ways my mom has constantly shown her love for me.

She gave up her career as a nurse to stay home and raise us kids. She wasn’t just a nurse either – she actually taught nursing. She’s incredibly bright and intelligent and I’m sure there are times it was difficult for her to leave that behind and be a full time mom. But I’m so glad she did. Because she was always there if we needed her… and sometimes even when we didn’t haha. )Maybe that’s why I managed to stay out of trouble growing up. I knew I couldn’t get away with anything because my mom was always there to catch me.)

She’s been such a trooper over the years driving me and my brothers to our myriad of extra-curriculars: sports, 4H, dance, band, piano, you name it – we were probably involved in it at one point or another. And even when we could drive ourselves to the events – she still always came to watch. Even now – with my baby brother in college – my mom and my dad make it to most of his games. And if they aren’t there in person – they are listening to it on the radio or watching it on the internet.

Not only has she been an amazing mom, but she’s an incredibly kind Christian woman. I’ve watched her give of her time and talents willingly for decades. I know so many people who are amazed by all that she does – and she does it all well and with grace. Even with us kids all grown up, she still is a 4H leader and on the Visual Arts Committee. She and my dad run their church’s Pre-Cana, the pre-marriage course for couples marrying in the Catholic church. She is taking care of my great aunt and uncle who both are in and out of the doctor a LOT. She still makes it to many of Jeremy’s basketball games too. And on top of all that she is a great wife and amazing mother to all of us. I truly don’t know how she does it.

So, amazing mother of mine! I wish you the happiest of birthdays this year and every year! Love you to the moon and back!