Mothers.There's something about the relationship that we share with them that is simultaneously the most amazing yet infuriating thing that could ever exist. She's the first person we want to call when something amazing happens, but also the person whose calls we ignore and give the excuse that we have a class (aka napping).
We tend to forget that our moms deserve to know what is going on in our lives, and that a close connection with her could actually be beneficial to us both. Believe it or not, your mom is actually pretty cool and is probably more knowledgeable about the world than you are. You may have moved off to college, but there's still a lot to learn.
1. She gave birth to you. Period.
There is some kind of kudos that needs to go out to every mother out there. Your mother carried you, nurtured her with her own body and then gave you life in the most painful way possible. Respect that.
2. She has your back, and can throw some award winning shade.
Bonus points if she's southern. Your mom will love the people you love, dislike the people you dislike and destroy the people who hurt you (my mother’s own words). Trust me on this. Mothers throw the best insults. Southern mothers especially can tear you a new one, but in the classiest way possible then add bless your heart directly after.
3. Mom is the OG you.
Your mom is a badass, hang out with her for a little bit and I promise you'll agree. She was you before you were a thing and she still has a few tricks up her sleeve that you could pick up.
4. After you leave, a connection with you is all that she wants.
You two lived together for roughly 18 years, so there's some separation anxiety bound to happen there. You get to go off to have a taste of independence and make new friends, and she is left at home. Do her a solid and keep in contact, she deserves at least that much.
5. She needs a gossip buddy.
You'll never believe what your Great Aunt Mabel did this time. She could talk to her friends about it. However, nobody will truly understand how deep the crazy runs in your family other than you. Also, the drama at church was just too juicy. Sit tight, it's going to be a long conversation.
6. She is your biggest cheerleader.
I used the word "myriad" once in an essay and my mother was immensely proud, saying that I was incredibly smart to know such a broad vocabulary. Myriad. Your mom doesn't care, in her world you are a genius and are going to do great things with your life. We all need that kind of support in life, no matter how embarrassing it may seem.
7. She will tell you the honest truth.
If you get a new haircut and want solely good reviews, send your friends a picture. If you want to know if those bangs make you look like Edna Mode, ask your mom.
8. She knows how to handle dating.
Mom is the complete package when it comes to dating. She is the protective mama bear ready to go after any man (or woman) that would dare to hurt her baby. She's also got some real experience under her belt in that arena and is chock full of advice and tips (solicited or otherwise). I mean, she DID manage to hook your dad.
9. She is your own personal Yoda.
All hail Queen Mom. She's been there, done that, and all of that knowledge is completely there free of charge. Take full advantage of that.
10. "The Complete History of You," by Your Mom.
What was the theme of your 4th birthday party? Your blood type? The name of the song that was played that one time in the car when you were a kid? A nursery rhyme you can't remember? Check out the “Complete History of You” written by Your Mother. The unabridged version comes with commentary on how cute you used to look with bows on top of your head and naked baby pictures.
11. Don't kid yourself. You are not an adult quite yet.
You may be on the road to independence, but you are not there yet. Not by a long shot. Mom is there to help you find your way and to give you advice on the things that you may be too embarrassed to ask other people. If I'm in a situation I don't feel comfortable in, I call her. Call me childish, but I know my personal limitations and have trust in my mother.
12. You know nothing about money, or how to write a check correctly.
What do those lines even mean? Am I supposed to write both the dollar and change amounts in words, or just the first? At 20-years-old, I can never remember, and I have to either Google it or call her every time. I'm the Queen of overspending, and while it may seem obnoxious at the time, having my mother remind me to slow down always comes in handy (even though I'd never tell her).
13. She can bring you down from the most explosive of freak outs.
She is a trained professional in YOU. From childhood fussiness to grown up panic attacks, she knows what makes you tick and how to calm the incoming storm.
14. She is your own peek into the future.
Look at her. Now, look at you. That was your own little taste of time travel. Personally, I have always believed that my mother has aged beautifully, and flawlessly. So basically, I'm set, and you probably are, too.
15. Whether you know it or not, she knows you.
She knows your quirks, the changes in your tone, and can spot an attitude from a mile away. Mothers are instilled with that sixth sense. She is the only person who can call you out and it will be OK. A short text can quickly warrant a phone call asking why you are mad, and will turn into an hour long cry fest with the two of you apologizing for things from three years ago. She is that powerful.
16. She puts up with you.
You are not an easy person to be around. The middle school years were pure misery for your parents and it’s a miracle you weren't left behind on a family vacation. Even now, we can all be pure terrors. Just remember that when you start feeling annoyed, she's felt that tenfold.
17. She loves you.
And you love her.
18. She won't always be there.
One day you'll pick up the phone to call her, and she won't be there to answer. Don't take for granted the fact that her advice will always be at your disposal. The relationship and love that you receive from your mother is priceless and, unfortunately, doesn't last forever. So give her a call and let her tell you about her garden. It'll make her day.
(Happy Birthday, Mom)
