happy birthday mommy!

One day while out walking with my best friend, we were talking about motherhood when she told me something that will forever stick in my mind. This friend said that no one will ever listen to you with the same rapt attention the way that your mother will. We started discussing the logistics of conversation between a mother and her child but quickly realized even when a mother seems like she isn't listening, she is, without a doubt, listening. Like many conversations I have had with this friend over the years, it was a gift, a pearl, a truism. At least it was for me. This truism made me think how important it is to choose my words carefully when I speak to my mother. After all, if you are fortunate enough to have a parent who still takes an active interest in your life when you get to be my age, than it just seems imperative to try your best to keep your words golden. I know, I happen to be a lucky daughter to have one of those moms that listens. & I don't mean to gloat about it or even pretend to be perfect in the way I speak to her. But, today is my Mom's birthday and she deserves to know how much I appreciate her. I love you Mom, & not just for always listening to me. I just love you.

There is a lot of history in this picture of my Mom. If I'm not mistaken, she made the dress she was wearing, did her own hair and astoundingly, perfectly applied her lipstick without the aid of a mirror. Isn't she lovely?