Dear mom,

Words fall so short when trying to thank or praise you for all that you've done for our family.

Throughout my 18 years of life, you've taught me that life is good even when times are hard, family is the most important thing I'll ever have so treat them well, and most importantly, loving Jesus is the best decision I could ever make. Looking back now, you were so right about everything.

You have endured heartache after heartache, but your faith never wavered. Your strength is what got your children through the hard times even though it was you hurting the most. I will never understand it, but I'll always be thankful for it.

Not only did you have 5 children, but you raised them and a granddaughter essentially all on your own. If there were a mom Olympics, you would bring home the gold, no doubt. You have built incredible relationships with all of us. You never let any of us feel unloved, and you always make sure to tell us that you're proud.

You are an incredible example of what a woman of God looks like. You've trained me to know that praying is sometimes, mostly always, the only thing I can do. Having a mom that prayers for her children daily and wants them to love Jesus with everything is something I will always be thankful for. I will never be able to thank you enough for raising me in a Godly home and making me go to Church as a kid so that I would grow to love Jesus and love going to Church.

You will never know how proud we are of you. Between graduating college at age 46, losing your husband and father within three years of each other, taking on a sixth child when you didn't have to, and coming to every school/church event we've ever had, I think it's safe to say God gave us the best mom.

We are so proud of you for all of the trails and hardships that you have overcome. I love you more than I could ever begin to explain.

Oh, I almost forgot to mention that time you donated one your kidneys. That was pretty sweet, too.

Love, Your Favorite Child