As this Mother’s Day comes to a close, I’d like to thank my mother for all that she has done for — and with — me these past 29 years. She mastered the art of parenting while remaining one of my closest confidants, even during those rocky adolescent years, which is a skill I still admire to this day. She also taught me a crap load, whether I realized it at the time or not. While it would be impossible to catalog everything she has taught me, I’ve jotted down the top 10 lessons my mom passed on to her youngest child (moi!). In no particular order (well, except for #1):

1. Girls can do anything boys can do. And more often than not, they can do it better.

2. It’s ok to talk about poop. And farts.

3. You may not agree with someone’s choice(s), but you can — and should — love and support them anyways.

4. Having a period sucks, but you have to just suck it up and hope your cramps go away sooner rather than later.

5. Love and respect yourself above all else; otherwise, you open the door for others to treat you badly.

6. Treat others how you would like to be treated.

7. Honesty is the best policy. Even if/when it can get you in trouble.

8. The kids who make fun of you during childhood are really just jealous of you. (While this may or may not have been true, it sure made me feel better!)

9. Travel the world, read tons of books, go to graduate school, take that wine tasting class… In short, do everything you’ve ever wanted to do before settling down (if you so choose).

10. Do the best you can do. This applies to all facets of life — school, love, friendships, being human.

Thanks, Mom! And happy Mother’s Day to all the mamas out there!

Categories: Motherhood

Tags: Happy Mother's Day, Mother, Mothers Day, Parenting