This one's for you Mom. . .

I'm lucky enough to have one of those "cool" moms. My whole life, friends have been saying to me, "You are so lucky. Your mom is so cool." Sometimes this compliment irked me, particularly during teen angst years. But for the most part, deep down, I agreed with them. Shh, don't tell. ;)

I had a wonderful childhood. My parents were incredibly loving, generous and supportive. We were spoiled but polite, well-mannered kids, my sis and I. All the kids on the Regina Way wanted to come to our house cuz we had all the newest and best toys and my mom always had fresh baked cookies. Birthday parties were a grand affair as were holidays. I learned to not mind being dragged to church on Christmas and Easter because the festivities awaiting us at home were always so much fun. And through it all, our house was teeming with family and friends. My mom had the gift- she could make a house a home.

Growing up, my mom worked at my schools. When I got my name on the board for borrowing a purple crayon from Denise Patlan during "quiet time" in the 2nd grade, I ran right to my mom in the Admin Office of St. Lucy's. In high school, I was lucky enough to transfer out of a public school to a private all girls’ college prep school because my mom got a job there. Of course, there were upswings and downward spirals to having my mom so close. If I wasn't doing well in school, she knew because she was friends with my teachers. I could never cut school without her knowing it but I could go to her office and get her to sign off on letting me go home early when I was feeling sick. Bonus!

Words fail me really when it comes to my mom. To me, she is the epitome of strength and courage, heart and love. She's the consummate party planner, a talented interior decorator, a doggie hospice provider, and the tie that binds her five brothers and sisters together now that both of their parents have passed. I have watched her hold the hand of my father, her best friend, and my grandmother as they ended their life journey. I've seen her pack up and travel to Italy, France and Hawaii. My mom taught me about loving and living life. She taught me how to be kind and generous, forgiving and brave. She is hilarious and smart, charismatic and fun-loving. She's my role model, my friend and the best mom I could ever wish for.

I love you Mom! Happy Mother's Day.

P.S. Don't cry.