A Mother's Day Tribute To My Late Mother

There was a plack above our kitchen sink growing up listing all the jobs a mother has. For example, it said a mother is a teacher, doctor, lawyer, chef, and

seamstress. That would describe my mom in many ways, but she was also much more.

As we mark the first Mother's Day since her sudden passing, I wanted to honor her and let you all know a little more about the most important woman in my life.

When I reflect on my beloved mom, one thing that stands out and puts a smile on my face is thinking of her quick wit. If you were lucky to know my amazing mom, this is often the one thing that stands out the most. My mom could crack a great oneliner and was one of the funniest people on the planet. She had gentle ease with everyone, and she was often referred to as the cool mom by my friends growing up.

She would jam out to the Monkeys but knew every word to the latest Backstreet Boys Song. She was never afraid to be goofy and showed me how to be ok in my skin. She had this way of making the bad days of my disorder seem easier just by turning up the radio and dancing in the kitchen.

She also had this quiet strength that I admire so much. She had endured so much in her 64 years of life but never complained, and when the average person would say why me, she would battle on and often with a smile. She showed me the importance of leaning on your faith. In the 11 months since her passing, this is what has gotten me through those hard days.

She was also a fantastic cook who knew what authentic comfort food was and would always seem to know when I needed it. She worked full time but often had fresh Blueberry muffins ready for my brother and me when we woke up for school . She then would come home and make the most fantastic meal after working the whole day at Younkers. Some of my best memories are the times we spent in that kitchen.

She also had the biggest heart, and her family was her everything, and she always put her family first. She would do anything for us and never thought about herself. She was the kindness soul that I miss every day.

My mom was my best friend, and though I write this tribute with some tears missing her on this particular day, I am also lucky that God blessed me with this robust role model who taught me the importance of faith, family, and fun. I am blessed that my relationship with my mother was so strong that I have these memories to bring me comfort.

If you are blessed to be able to celebrate with your mom, be sure to let them know just how much they mean to you. That is something that both my brother and I made sure we did, as every phone call and text conversation ended in I love you. To all the amazing moms or those dads taking on both roles, have an amazing day full of knowing just how amazing you are.