Mom

I couldn't title this one 'Grandma' like the last one, 'cause I know that would confuse you. My memories growing up with Mom.....how can I keep this short and pay due tribute. Obviously, I was with her the longest of the 4 of us. But, because I had a brother born so shortly after me, I didn't get much of her to just myself. :)

I remember that she worked alot and worked hard to provide for us. Don't be offended Mom, but I feel like we kind of grew up together, a little, because you were so young when you had us. I remember the first time, as a young teenager, when you told me how I came to be, and just how young you were. I think I did something to make you mad. Probably some teenage attitude. And, you let me have it. I think that was the beginning of us being closer and how I came to share almost everything with you. I think I have gotten to that point with my daughter too, and I hope to continue that friendship.

I remember Dad being gone alot on "stayaway". Once you got us up to either say goodbye to him or to wake us up to see him when he got home. I don't remember which it was. But, I do remember being in my pajamas and being sleepy and it was dark out. Before the younger 2 were born you used to get everything ready for us to go camping on the weekends. Did you know back then that you would be doing it all the time??

I guess at the oldest, I remember things alot different than Juli, because she was the youngest. I remember you being at work and me doing alot of the chores around the house to help out. Oh, how I remember those lists. Now that I am a mom too, I realize just how much those lists had to help you out. And, I feel guilty that I didn't put more effort into it. I didn't know!!! I appreciate it so much when I can delegate jobs and can relax when I know I don't have to do it all.

So, anyway, MOM, Happy Birthday! You really did teach me alot by setting the examples that you did. I love you!