She

SHE taught me that it’s okay to be completely honest with your children, even if the conversation is uncomfortable – they’ll understand the enormity of that honesty when they have kids of their own.

SHE taught me that you need to nurture and maintain a store of strength and confidence within yourself so as to never be backed into a corner, too scared or weak to walk away.

SHE taught me that when money is tight, it’s possible to live on green beans and diet soda, and as an extra bonus your pants will be a little looser come payday.

SHE taught me that no one can make you feel an emotion, you make that choice on your own and can just as easily choose differently.

SHE taught my germaphobic, clean-freak five year old how to fish, with real worms and everything.

SHE puts every single worm on his hook, even to this day, five years later.

SHE never drew a line between “girl things” and “guy things” – she routinely turns heads by doing the “guy things.”

SHE can (and does) start some days trudging through the woods in camouflage with a rifle, then ends that day at a dinner party in 4” heels and a cocktail dress.

SHE taught me that high heels are a short girl’s best friend.

SHE taught me that it’s far more fulfilling to be someone’s cheerleader than it is to be their critic.

SHE taught me, on my 21st birthday, to stick to clear liquor all night to avoid spending the morning on the bathroom floor. (The tip that keeps on giving!)

SHE taught me how to use superlatives diplomatically, such as “You’re my favorite daughter WHO LIVES HERE,” which is both infuriating and endearing.

SHE is an amazing, fantastic, caring and generous mother.

SHE is my most regular blog reader – so Happy Mother’s Day, Mom!