For Mama

Some moms stencil roses on top of freshly baked pies and bake homemade petit fours for their daughter's tea parties. Some volunteer for the PTA and design cookie bouquets for teachers. Others sneak into their kids' room every night to turn off lamps, kiss foreheads, and gently slide glasses off the bridge of a nose.

Mine did all of that. She also served dinner on roller skates and let us throw a whole pot of cooked spaghetti all over the kitchen just because it seemed like fun. My mother has always been equal parts supportive and silly; grounded, but wild. I loved being her daughter because I could tell she loved being my mom. I felt lucky to be her kid. And now that I'm a grown-up, I'm lucky to be her friend.

She embraces people with an open mind and an open heart, and taught me to always do the same. She laughs easily and often and sprinkles joy like confetti wherever she goes. I try to live my life with curiosity, spunk and humor, and I learned how to do that by watching her.

It's her birthday today, so technically when the candles are blown out all wishes should go to her.  But if I could steal just one, it'd be to live closer to the most special woman in my life because I miss her every day. I love you, Lil' Mama.