Here are some things I’ve learned from my mom over the last 28 years…

(1) Always take time to put on lipstick, mascara and earrings before going out (anywhere).

(2) Be sure that when you have a hard day, feel sick or have a test or something important coming up to wear something nice - it will help you feel better and boost your confidence.

(3) Feel free to make up your own words to express frustration rather than using “those bad words” (as she calls any curse word). Her favorite is “Oh piddle!”

(4) Cook with color. Everything on your plate should be a different color and the presentation makes the meal 10 times better.

(5) Saying you’re “bored” is equivelent to saying a four-letter-word. There’s ALWAYS something to do: a game to play, a person to call, a letter to be written, something to clean, flowers to plant, somewhere to go, something to prepare for, a book to read… her list could go on forever.

(6) When you’re in an argument with someone, 50% of it is your fault, so be willing to apologize and compromise. Anytime I’ve complained about someone, her first response is always, “Well, what did YOU do?”

(7) Love and respect your husband. He needs your support at all times.

(8) Laugh a lot. Everything is not a big deal, so learn not to sweat the small stuff.

(9) Keep learning. Take a class, go to museums, go to the theatre, read books, ask questions.

(10) Serve. You are better than no-one… it’s not about you. Put others before yourself and be willing to share your time, thoughts, energy and posessions.

(11) Work hard and do your best at whatever you do.

(12) Value your family. They care about you more than you know. Time spent with them is priceless.

(13) God is most important. Nothing will replace your relationship with Him and what you do for Him is all that matters.

A lot of these are things that she said over and over and over growing up, but all have been modeled through her actions. She has been who has shown me how to be a student, teacher, leader, friend, daughter, servant, wife and someday mother. She has absolutely driven me crazy at times (as I have her), but she is by far one of my greatest heros. She has faults as we all do, but who wants their hero to be perfect? If she were, I would be unable to relate to her and living to her standards would be unattainable. I’m blessed she’s my mom.