Whenever I talk about my mom, I always tell people that she is a badass. You only have to meet her once to know its true. First, she is gorgeous–when I introduce her to people they ALWAYS think she’s my sister. She is the most outwardly and inwardly beautiful woman, charming and sweet. She’s super fit–runs marathons and works out like a champ–and she isn’t afraid of hard work in the least. Whether it’s her job or working on our house or taking care of our family, she gets it done (done right and the first time, too). She has an uncanny ability to read people and isn’t afraid to say exactly what she thinks. 

But most importantly, she’s tenacious. She hasn’t ever (and never will) give up. When all the cards were stacked against her, she not only survived but thrived. She’s faced so much heartache in this life but still managed to keep a smile on her face and her eyes and spirit lifted to God. She’s intelligent and honest and understanding and so very wise. She’s been mother and father, parent and friend to me. 

I know that the person I am and every single success I’ve EVER had in life is owed to her. Without her sacrifice and example, I would be nothing. So today–and every day–I honor you. I thank you for carrying me for nine months and though every single day I’ve spent on this Earth. I look to you as an example of true womanhood. I support you and encourage you as you’ve always done for me. I can only pray that I become half the woman you are, that you are half as proud to be my mother as I am to be your daughter. 
And most of all, I love you. My heart beats for you and because of you; you gave me this life and I can never repay you. With every single beat of my heart, I love you.

Happy Mother’s Day.