Here's me standing up and crying "Blessed!"

**EDITED ALMOST A WEEK LATER**

Turns out Mom HATES this picture of herself. Hates, hates, hates it. 

Which is strange, because I really like it. And so does my sister (who actually took the picture). 

So here's another picture to go in its place.

I don't know how she feels about this one. If she hates it too, I'll keep searching for another one. Who knows how many pictures we'll have up here...?

***

Though I write every day and can talk your ear off, when it comes to writing something about my mother I'm almost at a loss for words.

Words seem inadequate and too limited to express the enormity of my admiration, love, and appreciation for this woman. There are times when "I love you" just seems too small a thing to say.

I suppose when it comes down to it, the word "mother" is too small a word for all the meaning that it holds. Role model, teacher, comforter, confidante, example. And though we butted heads through the years, as an adult, she is finally my friend.

I suppose if I had to pick just one, well two, words, I'd have to choose gift and blessing. Because of all the mothers in the world, God chose this one for me. And I couldn't be more thankful.

Happy birthday, Mom. I love you.

Comments

[Kate]

So sweet! Happy Birthday Joanne's Mom!

Joanne, you and your mom look so much alike!

[Peggy]

Blessings Joanne...to me that sums it ALL up! BLESSED...indeed a beautiful tribute of your love...washed in tears & deep words of
what a GIFT your mother is & your thankfulness! May this be a BLESSED birthday!

[Jennifer Medeiros]

Happy birthday to your beautiful mother. Enjoy your evening of Thanksgiving and all that it offers. Much love!

[Bonnie]

Great tribute to your Mom !! Happy Birthday to her ... hope the turkey was great !!

[Holly @ Crownlaiddown]

You DO have the dearest Mother!

May this year be a blessing in every way to her!!
Love and prayers,
Holly

[Dori]

Love this photo -- well shot! Definitely a keepsake!!