A Mother's Day Letter

Dear Mom,
Happy Mother's Day! Sorry we can't spend it together this year, but we'll make up for it next weekend. I'm glad you can spend today with your mom.

I always knew you did a lot for me and I appreciated it. But I didn't realize all you did and how much you sacrificed for us until I had kids of my own. Thank you for everything, and thank you for never thinking it was a sacrifice. People seem to think I'm a good mom and that my kids are sweet, smart, and well-behaved. I know I can take some credit for that, but I think a lot of that credit should go to you, since you taught me how to be a good mom. Thank you for being supportive and involved but giving me space to grow up and learn on my own. Thank you for making time for me when it wasn't convenient. Thank you for taking care of me when I was sick. Thank you for loving me when I was difficult and not very likable. Thank you for all the advice over the years and resisting giving me advice when I didn't ask for it, lol.

I miss you and wish you lived closer. I'm really looking forward to seeing you next weekend. Since Nora was born, I've thought a lot about the night you stayed at the hospital with me after Amelia was born so Steve could be home with Ella. While I really appreciated your help, I think I appreciated the time alone with you even more. I still laugh when I think about the story you told me over lunch, when you laughed so hard you cried. It's one of my favorite recent memories of you. Thanks again for everything Mom. You're the best and I love you.

Love,
Paula