Cloud 8½

My mother is my confidante, my adviser, my partner-in-crime, my shoulder to lean on, my voice of reason and my fellow goofball. I have fun with my Mom like no one else in my life – I can’t begin to count the number of times we’ve dissolved into hysterical laughter together over some of the stupidest, silliest things. We’ve traveled up and down the east coast, from North Carolina to Connecticut, chasing our favorite performers on their concert tours. We’ve traveled to Florida and South Carolina to visit family; to Ireland to drive in circles, hit curbs, dodge branches and lay on the edge of the Cliffs of Moher; to Scotland to visit the town where her father is from and explore the winding, ancient halls of Edinburgh and Stirling Castles. My mother is my best friend and I don’t know what I would do without her.

Mom & I, NYC, Mother's Day Weekend 2008

I hope that one day my daughter considers me her best friend, and that I can do even 1/10th of the incredible job being a mother as my own has done. My little girl is the center of my world and she makes every day better and brighter. I live for her laughter, her hugs, her kisses, her “I love you forever and a day!”s. She’s bright, she’s beautiful, she’s funny. Every day is an adventure, sometimes a trying adventure, but certainly never dull.

Becoming a mother changed my life in ways I could have never imagined. I’m more centered, I’m more fulfilled, I’m happier. I have a purpose that I’ve never had before, and I am so grateful for my daughter for helping me to become a better person.

My first Mother's Day - she was 1 month old.

A more recent photo

To all of the mothers out there – Moms, Grandmothers, Godmothers, Stepmothers, Surrogate Mothers, Mothers-to-Furry-Children – Happy Mother’s Day! Thank you for all that you do.