"Kelly, it's time to wake uuuuuuuuup!" I would curse as the sing-song call grew louder and louder. Just before she popped into my room I would jump out of bed and scramble to find some clean clothes. She was my alarm clock for 18 years. I have never found one that's more dependable.
The entire time I never really appreciated the amount of love and hard work that went into her morning reveille. I completely overlooked the fact that fresh clean clothes arrived in our rooms almost daily. I never realized how much went into the notes we found in our backpacks before big tests or races. Nor did I understand the unwavering support as I glanced up into the stands to see her still in her work clothes cheering me on during races.
It really took Hazel's arrival for me to clue in to this amazing woman that has been with me all my life. The responsibility of motherhood seems overwhelming at times; I can't believe I am charged with safeguarding and guiding my little angel to adulthood. I don't know how my Mom could possibly have tackled this seemingly insurmountable goal with her tenacity and charm. She truly is incredible.
I am so fortunate to have such an amazing role model, mentor, and (most importantly) friend to guide me through the adventures of motherhood.
You truly are the best, Mom.
Happy Mother's Day!
