Dear Mom,

Look at that! A Mother's Day Card with a twist. I actually remembered this year! You know me, the forgetful one. The procrastinator that gave you three cards one year because I missed the year before and made up for it by making a past, present, and future Mother's Day card.

I didn't understand why you wanted a card every year. Didn't I tell you I loved you every day? Why did I need to write it down? I understand now.

The importance is in the time it takes. It's in the curve of the letters, whether too crooked or too swirly. It's in the misspelled words and the hand-drawn hearts that are scribbled in the margins. Over the years, there is a growing pattern, stamped out and improved. Each year, the words are spelled more correctly. The curve of each letter is easier to make out. The hearts seem to stay the same, a little shaky, but pretty nonetheless. I realize now that each letter is like a checkpoint on progress. Every year, you have a letter that improves in structure compared to the one before. It shows how much I've grown. It gives you little hints at my personality. Things unspoken that you already know and that I probably haven't noticed.

It's funny how much of yourself gets poured out in writing. It makes sense that you would like something from the heart. Whether it's a few words or a couple paragraphs, you cherish it. I love that about you.

I love so many things about you, mom.

I love that you listen when I speak. You've always been a great listener. I love your smile. It makes your eyes crinkle and your whole face lights up. I love how you speak to babies. Your voice changes but you can hear the gentleness and love that surrounds your soul. I love how hard you work. You do so much for me and the whole family. You really do everything as if it's for the Lord. I love how you'll watch movies with me and listen to me ramble about facts that I feel enrich the story. I love how you think of everyone before yourself. It's refreshing in a world where everyone seems self-centered. I love how much you care for your kids and your grandchild. You make us seem like we are your whole world.

If it wasn't for you, I wouldn't be who I am today. However cliche it may seem, it's true. You've always been my number one fan. Regardless of what I've done, you still love me. You encourage me to be the best me that I can possibly be. You provide over and above the necessities. You cherish my time at home. No matter when I call or need help, you are there. You've been my teacher and my friend. That's the best thing a mother can be.

Thank you for loving me. Thank you for being you.

With Love,

Your Daughter