Dear Mom

To my mom,

My baby turned one year old this week, and your baby is turning twenty one in a few short weeks herself.  I feel like I have lived a whole lifetime without you, but your legacy continues.  In my beautiful sister, your baby girl, I see your face.  I see your warm heart and your compassion.  I see your smile, your hair, and your essence.  In my children I see your determination, your carefree attitude, your mischievous sense of humor and your artistic skill. 

Even though you've been gone from my life for as long as I had you, I still feel like I see you every day.  Though you aren't physically with me, I see what you have passed along to your daughters and granddaughters.  You were one of the most beautiful people I have had the privilege of knowing, and I am so happy that parts of you continue on.

I wish you could be here to see your grandbabies grow and learn and develop.  They are remarkable people, and I am bursting with pride about them.  I wish you could see how far I've come, and how much I've conquered to have a life I am truly happy with.  I wish you could see your baby girl turn twenty one and take her life into her own hands with strength and determination.  You would be so proud.

I really miss you right now, and I know I will miss you for the rest of my life.  You were a good mother, and I think if you were here now, we would be good friends too.  I hope I live up to all you wanted for me.  I emulate you when I parent my children, and because of this, I know that they will never doubt that I love them and want what is best for them.  I wish they could know you in person, but I take comfort in the fact that my sister, myself and they themselves carry on your spirit.

I love you mom.