Happy Mother’s Day to the Best Mom (Spoiler Alert: It’s Ms. Bear)

Dear Ms. Bear (the BEST mom ever!)…

I’ve written a blog post for Mother’s Day every year since 2009 — whew, that’s a lot of blog posts! But then again, there’s been a lot to say — err, write! Don’t worry, though! As you can see from the last decade, it’s all good things! It’s hard to pack everything you mean to me in just one post, isn’t it? You inspire me, lift me up, keep me honest, make me laugh (especially with your adorableness!) and, of course, love me unconditionally. Just as I love you unconditionally.

Of course, 2020 hasn’t exactly panned out like we thought it would. For the last nine weeks (or has it been 10…? Who even knows anymore…?), we’ve been quarantining together. We’ve had our moments of frustration and maybe a bit of too much togetherness at times — like when you casually drop a hint with “Wow, you’re really chatty today!” — but other than that, I’ve treasured this time we’ve spent at home and there is no one else I’d rather be in the depths of stay-at-home mode with than you!

I was thinking last week about what I wanted to say in this blog post and that’s when it hit me: Over the last nine weeks, I’ve gotten to see a side of you I don’t get to see very often.

The side that relaxes and rests.

You’re usually such a bundle of energy, flitting quickly from here to there faster than the Energizer Bunny, that I can barely keep up with you. In fact, I’m usually the one who is telling you to “SLOW DOWN” and “SIT DOWN,” right, Bert? I mean, I get worn out just watching you go, go, go!!

But since we’ve been home, I’ve actually seen you slow down. You’re relaxing. You’re getting the proper amount of sleep. You’re getting out in nature — and following proper social distancing protocols, of course! And you’re, perhaps for the first time ever, listening to your body. It’s quite a sight to behold — one I’m so grateful for.

You and I have always been a team!! Through good times and bad. Through laughter and tears. Through Yahtzee wins and losses. Through binge-watching The Golden Girls multiple times, including right now. You’re the best of the best and my hero for life!! Happy Mother’s Day, Mom!! You’re aces in my book and thank you for everything!! Now, go and sit down, please!! xoxo

Editor’s Note: As I was finishing up this post, Ms. Bear said “Why don’t you put the links to all the past Mother’s Day posts for me!” Well, who am I to deny my lovely mom?? Here you go, for your reading pleasure: 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018 and 2019.