Because she was my mom...

I am here today,

because she was my mom. 

I'm not always the beam of sunshine that she was, 

but she taught me the importance of helping others,

even when they may never be able to help us back.

Babies of all species need love and nurturing.

I learned that,

because she was my mom.

Because she was my mom,

I became a mom myself. 

I understand the importance of being present,

and never taking myself too seriously.

I learned to embrace the chaos and laugh often. 

My daughters are able to learn those same lessons,

because she was my mom.

Because she was my mom,

I learned you are never too old to act like a child.

Make funny faces, do silly voices, 

and tell a lot of stories.

Keeping up with children will keep you young,

and that all makes perfect sense to me,

because she was my mom.

This photo was taken last year, the last Mother's Day we were able to spend with her. 

We had no clue. 

This Mother's Day was the first of many where an important piece will be missing. 

Tell your loved ones what they mean to you while you can.