Happy birthday to the woman who has completely shaped my life. I have no idea what I would do without her.

My mom taught me everything, from drinking out of a cup to love the Gospel, to the difference between Impressionism and Post-Impressionism, to how to write a five paragraph essay, to baking, serving, and loving.

My mom is seriously my best friend. I call her pretty much every day to chat, catch up, hear about her crazy busy schedule, tell her about my crazy busy schedule, and everything in between.

My mom raised me to be a thinker, to value culture, art, and music, to love the Gospel, to serve others. I can only hope that someday to be half the woman she is.

She is a hard worker, she is one of the smartest people that I know, and I am so lucky to be her daughter.

She didn’t miss a single ballet performance, she taught me to play the piano, she has worked for me doing laundry, driving, cooking, and loving. I can’t even say enough about how wonderful she is!

Mom, happy birthday. I love you and I hope this year is one of the best years ever!