Tonight I’m sending out lots of birthday love to the most important woman in my life. My Mom has been more than just an inspiration for all these years, she’s been my rock my guiding light, and most importantly my very best friend.

I can honestly say that my Mom has shaped me into the young woman that I am today. Without her, I truly don’t know where I’d be in this world. She has always been an amazing mother, but there were times when I was younger that I know I didn’t fully appreciate it. She has always given up so much to care and support for our entire family. As I look back now I can appreciate all she’s done, especially during that time when she didn’t always get the respect and thanks that she should have.

It wasn’t until college that my Mom truly became my best friend. I struggled through those years- with school, a relationship, and emotionally as well. But, my Mom was always there no matter what. For advice when I needed it, a shoulder to always cry on, and a pep talk before or after a big test. She always gave me the boost of confidence I needed to get through all the important and big steps in my life. The never ending support she provided was the reason I was able to get through those four years.

What I admire most about my Mom? Her ability to put others before herself. When I first started considering moving away from Home and to Oklahoma after college I was very unsure and didn’t know what to think. I was nervous and anxious to even bring it up to her. We had become so close and I knew she wouldn’t want me to leave. Honestly, I wasn’t even sure I wanted to leave. Multiple people had be telling me that I should just stay in Vermont and that it wouldn’t be the best idea to move away. But, you know who was the very first person to tell me to go? My Mom. She knew that deep down I really wanted to go and just needed her approval. She put my own wants and desires above hers, above what may have even been the smarter choice, and she encouraged me to go.

I miss my Mom every single day. I’m sure to call her whenever I leave work to tell her about my shift, to text her every day just asking what’s up, and to constantly share funny pictures and videos that remind me of her and the crazy dog lady she may be. I still need my Mom, honestly now more than ever. I can’t get through a day without calling her and asking her for advice and help whether that be in the grocery store, scheduling appointments, wondering what I should wear to a certain event, and questions on how to handle certain situations at work. Some how, she just always has an answer to everything.

So Mom-

Happy Birthday! I’m sorry I can’t be there to celebrate and spend Thanksgiving together with you and the rest of the family. But know that I love you very much and am forever grateful for your love and friendship. Thank you for raising me to be the strong willed, courageous, and independent woman that I am. I’m so lucky every day to say that I grow more and more like my mother each passing year. You are truly beautiful inside and out and I’ll be the luckiest one day to just be half the mom that you are.  I love you

So, Here’s to YOU and the amazing woman that you are!!