With Mother’s Day upon us, I like to dedicate a simple blog to my mom. After 30 years of being the best mom ever, I need to say a few simple “thank you” ‘s…

Thank you for the great meals that you cook. I mean, nobody beats your home-cooked meals (especially that pasta salad)! And, I never realized how difficult it is to put a well-balanced supper together! Your talent for cooking, unfortunately, is not hereditary.

Thank you for always being so concerned for me when I was sick or hurt. Every time Penny isn’t feeling well, I find myself comforting her and am reminded of the many years that I found reassurance in your arms.

Thank you for putting up with my antics when I was a child. I know you always say that I wasn’t much of a handful when I was younger, but I do remember lots of instances that could have made your hair turn grey. (Remember the crayons catching the dryer on fire?)

Thank you for always looking out for my safety. I could never understand why I could never play near the road or climb the tallest trees, but now that I have Penny, it’s quite clear. If I could make a shirt of bubble wrap for Penny when she goes outside, I would!

Thank you for being so fun! You were never one to back away from playing baseball outdoors or even for a few rounds of Nintendo. You always took an interest in what I was doing, no matter how strange it was.

Thank you for always being so optimistic and positive. No matter how grim things may have looked, you always provided a hopeful outlook for the future. That attitude has helped keep me upbeat through life and is sure to for many years to come.

Thank you for helping me when I needed it. Whenever I needed someone to proof-read a paper (I’ve always been horrible with spelling/grammar/etc.), or had a question about finances, you were always quick to lend a hand and help me out!

Thank you for your generosity. I know that money was tight growing up, but that never stopped you from spoiling me rotten. And even now, I see how much you spoil Penny (and she loves it!).

And finally, thank you Mom for being there for me. Anytime I needed someone to talk to or needed help, you (and Dad) have always been right there to guide me along. Those perfect TV moms have got nothing on you!

Love you! Happy Mother’s Day!