Mom,

I want to start of by saying thank you for giving me such an amazing life. You have shown me what it means to be a strong, independent woman. I look up to you so much and I hope to be half the mom you are. You have never given up on us and I know it wasn't easy.

Even when you had to get a job so that I could go to school, you found the most in it and always walked through those doors with a huge smile. I know that some days were hard but you never let us know that. You put on your big girl pants and just went on. You work hard every day and it is very admirable.

I know I slack in the department of Thanksgiving, but there is nothing you do that goes unnoticed. I see how tired you are from working long days, yet you still push through to make us dinner. I see how much you hate to do laundry and clean the house, yet we have never gone a week without it being done.

Although we are a family that argues a lot, you still seem to be quick to forgive. I know that you cry because you feel as though you have messed up. Just know that you have taught us right and our mistakes are not your fault. The rules you gave us and the punishments that came along with them have made me a better person.

You have not just mothered me, but you have been a mother to so many people as well. Everyone knew you were a simple phone call away, at any hour. You would drop anything to help a friend who just needed someone to talk to. If anyone knew you or knows you, they have felt the love of someone who truly cares.

I know now what a home is supposed to be, a place where everyone should feel comfortable. You have invited people into our home and dealt with their everyday problems along with yours. Even at Christmas, you made sure that everyone that walked through the door had a present.

You've been in pain and felt like you could go no further but you pushed through and you're still going strong. I, along with so many people, am so thankful for the dedication you put into the lives of everyone around you. You have a heart that aches when another person is in pain.

Through you, I have learned respect for all people, especially those whom we are not completely fond of. You have taught me what it means to be a good wife and how putting someone else's needs before yours is the key to a great relationship. I have learned that giving up is not the answer and it is necessary to finish a task as strong as you began it.

No matter who tells you you're not good enough, even if it's yourself, they're wrong.

I know that who I am was shaped by an amazing woman I get to call my mom. Thank you for putting up with my craziness. Thank you for comforting me when I was sick or sad. Thank you for treating me with respect but still knowing what I need. Thank you for putting your needs aside even when it was hard.

Though you are not perfect, no one is, and I still love you. I love your caring nature. I love your willingness to help anyone you meet. I love your encouragement for both my brother and me. I love your food.

I am so proud to call you my mom and I will love you forever.

Love,

Your Toots