Mama

I thought I would attempt to write a tribute to my mama today, in honor of Mothers' Day.  I've been thinking over the past few days about all of the things she's taught me. 

The more I thought about it, though, I realized most of the things I would write about didn't really matter. Yes, she taught me to drive and to cook and to wash my sheets on a weekly basis.  She taught me to love the water, along with dogs and babies.  She's always shared with me her love for reading, and she's the one I call when I'm having a bad day.  But more important than all of that and the hundreds of other things she's given me over the years, she taught me how to love.  

My mom can love better than anybody.  To her, love isn't a feeling, it's an action.  And I see it every time she listens, cares, serves, mends, buys, hugs, talks, cooks, or drives 6+hours to see me.  

I remember one time when I was 6 or 7, I told her "You're the best mom in the whole world. You're even better than Janet's mom."  (Janet's mom made the best chocolate chip cookies and mac and cheese you've ever had in your life.)  It was the biggest compliment I could think of to thank her for the way she loved me so completely.  Today, a high school diploma and two college degrees later, I can't say it much better. You're the best mom in the whole world, and I love you too.

Mom and Dad have been married
40 years.  This is from their
first date, the 8th grade dance.

She's responsible for this crew.

Our ever-expanding clan.  This was taken only a year ago,
 but it's missing our two youngest faces.  

 P.S. Mom, I'm sorry I chose to jump out of a plane on Mother's Day. Forgive me?