Happy's Mother Day!

You know it: I have the best mom in the word. Really. Let me tell you why:

1. My mom has instilled huge work ethic in me. Now that I have a mini-family of my own, I am amazed more and more every day of how my mom was able to work all day, then keep the house clean, flowers weeded, dinner cooked (like, a REAL scratch dinner -- protein, vegetable, starch) and still have patience to give us snuggles and play. 

2. My mom was never too busy to take care of herself. I remember watching her get ready for work each day: rollers, makeup, pressed clothes. I love how my mom did all this without ever seeming superficial or vain--she was just putting her best food forward. As you can see, my mom is gorgeous still today...but we always laugh about her one rotated front tooth. Its so cute, this little battle between us about her tooth. I like to come up with elaborate plans full of painful dental procedures to fix it, and she likes to think she can just push it back into place with her fingers. 

3. My mom goes to church regularly and took us along. We always prayed before dinner and before bed. Thanks. 

4. I know this will seem like a lie, but I think I could count on one hand the number of times I've heard my mom gossip. Amazing AND true. 

5. My mom cuts out funny or touching newspaper articles and sends them too me.  She has done this since I left for college.

6. My mom would never baby me during the hard times in dental school, even though I REALLY wanted her to. Looking back, it was what I really needed. How did she know?

7. Mom and I have similar senses of humor. She is very silly at times (hello Nick Schweddy of Schweddy Balls on SNL?) and not afraid to show her dingy side...just like me!

8. Mom is very good at appreciating the wonder and beauty of "little things" - flowers, coffee, books, and encourages me to do the same!

9.  I remember December of  1999 -- I was home for Christmas after one semester of college and INCREDIBLY depressed; I was lashing out to everyone. I clearly remember Mom coming into my room before work one morning, laying by me as I dozed, and giving me the most undeserved hug and kiss ever. I think about that demonstration of undeserved love on a regular basis.

10. My mom tries to make EVERYTHING special. Flowers on the table. Homemade granola and yogurt parfaits for breakfast. Christmas entryway decorations. Things my mother puts her hands on are always lovely, but at the same time, never a production or drama-filled event. 

The last thing I must say about my mom is probably the best: she is incredibly unselfish and unmaterialistic...and in the same line is an amazing listener. Every day I try to be more like that. But surely, as I am also 50% Randy (who I love for lots of reasons, too), that part for me is a WORK - IN - PROGRESS. 

Mom, I love you so much. I hope you enjoy your special day.