29 Reasons to Love the Birthday Girl!

One of my biggest regrets in life is that I didn't publicly praise my mom at my wedding. At the time, it felt overwhelming to do so. How do you describe how much you love and appreciate someone who has supported you every minute of your life? She has sacrificed so much, loved so unconditionally, and given so much of herself to me. I really didn't know how to thank her for that, without falling to pieces. Now, I wish I had cried through it, because at least she would know...and all of my friends would know how amazing she is. But, since I didn't, I want to take this opportunity (on her birthday) to mention some of the things that I love so much about her:

1.) She always finds the perfect necklace for every outfit
2.) She can beat just about anyone in scrabble
5.) She lights up whenever she hears Christmas music
6.) She secretly cheers for OU even though she's a Longhorn
7.) She's a sucker for sales...especially when it involves buying something for her kids
8.) She organizes her closet like a clothing store
9.) She has persevered through countless home renovations
10.) She cries listening to any redeeming story
11.) She has saved almost every article of clothing and almost every toy that her children ever owned
12.) She cherishes time with her family
13.) She has 30 scrapbooks for each of her children
14.) She thinks creatively about how to interact and engage her grandchildren
15.) She is passionate about teaching godly values to kids
16.) She would sacrifice anything for her kids
17.) She may hunt you down if you owe money to dad's business
18.) She is sweet AND sassy....sounds like sauce
19.) She gives great back rubs
20.) She's not afraid to bust out old dance moves
21.) She has a weakness for Van Morrison
22.) She never forgets a birthday...or any opportunity to celebrate someone
23.) She's a great listener
24.) She gives great advice
25.) She has a deep love for the Lord and a heart full of thankfulness
26.) She's patient with me, even when I'm in a bad mood
27.) She has loved and supported me through every stage of life
28.) and, she loves my daughter as much as she loves me...maybe more. :)
29.) I don't know what I would do without her!

I love you mom! Happy Birthday!!!!