My mom turns 60 today. She dislikes this immensely and probably will dislike that I have now broadcasted it for her, but she won't be surprised *wink*
So here goes ...
Dear B.
See I haven't even typed a word yet into the body of this and I already need a tissue, this is how I know that I am exactly like you, you probably just went and got one too. The truth is that you are like your mom too, and I bet just like me, you never thought you wanted to be that way ... but it's how we ended up and we are both secretly happy about it.
I spent a lot of time as a strong teenager letting you know all of the things that I thought you were doing wrong, but I'm not sure if I ever told you all of the things that I think you did right.
You taught me first and foremost to be kind. I'll never forget the time that I rolled my eyes at my grouchy old bus driver after he smiled and waved at me and how disappointed you were in me for not smiling back at him.
You taught me not to judge. I dont think that I have ever seen you non-accepting of someone or their ways or form an opinion of someone before giving them a full 100% chance.
You taught me that love is all we need. This, sometimes I still struggle with. I would like to say that no, I also need boots, bags, and other cute things but you are right. Love is all we need and I have never had a lack of love from you, nor have my babies, your grand babies.
You have ZERO drama. I can't say that I inherited this but if there was one quality of yours that I wish I did it would be this one ... I blame Dad for my "flair"
You always told me that I was beautiful, even when I know I was awkward ... but I understand now that little girls are always beautiful in their mommys eyes.
You taught me to forgive.
Actually if I am being honest I don't remember this lesson coming from you but somehow I picked it up and I know it wasn't from Dad.
You taught me what it looks like to be a loyal, loving, supportive wife. I will insert credit for Dad here too since I seem to be picking on him :) you both have been an amazing example of unending love. When I was younger it made me want to barph, but I get it now. Thank you for not changing just because your rude daughter thought you guys were too old to hug or kiss still.
Lastly, and one of the MOST important ... you taught me not to care what others think. I haven't done very well with this. I care what everyone thinks. I worry like crazy and I know that I get that from you. Funny enough, just like you, I try to teach MY daughter the same thing even though I haven't yet grasped it myself. Nana was a worrier, you are a worrier, I am a worrier and little KL is a worrier too.
So you're 60. Well you would tell me (and you know that I hate when you say this to me) "JUST DON'T WORRY ABOUT IT" :)
You are the mom and Grandma that I never knew you could be or would be (I know that you know me well enough to take that as a compliment) and you are one of my best friends. If 60 is what it took for us to get here ... then bring on 60!!
I love you, Happy Birthday Mom.
PS Im crying ... and it's all your fault! xo
