You gave meaning to what it means to be a mom. Out of all your accomplishments in life, being a mom was always number one to you. Even though you couldn’t have children of your own, you opened your heart to adopt without a doubt in the world. There is not a day that goes by that we don’t think about you.

1. Thank you for not being perfect.

Life wasn’t always easy for you and there were times that you fell down, but you always got back up. You taught me that no matter how bad things get, you could always find a way to make it better.

2. Thank you for your strength.

My mom always tells me that I come from a line of strong women and I have you to thank for starting that line.

3. Thank you for filling my life with music.

My favorite childhood memories are those of you singing to me. It didn’t matter what you sang, you could make songs out of anything and that positive and happy energy brightened everyone’s day.

4. Thank you for keeping up with me when I was a kid.

You let me talk nonsense for hours on end and dress you up in ridiculous costumes. You never once told me that you were too busy or too tired to play with me even if you were exhausted. I’ll never forget my first all-nighter when we stayed up until sunrise just talking. You made me feel important by always stopping to listen to me no matter what was going on.

5. Thank you for your humor.

Whenever we were together, we were laughing. Your wit and impeccable timing could put anyone on the floor.

6. Thank you for your patience.

I live my life by your motto of “it takes time.” Hearing you say those words instantly made me take a deep breath and realize that everything was going to be okay. You always made time for and appreciated the little things in life.

7. Thank you for always smiling.

Even though you lost the love of your life and music partner to cancer, leaving you alone with two young children, you never stopped smiling. You always focused on the positives and didn’t let anything bring you down. You raised two children and became the best grandma anyone could ever ask for. You brought light and joy into everyone’s life that had the privilege of meeting you.