Happy Mother's Day! From Alyssa:

Happy Mother's Day!

Dear Mama,

If someone was to ask me what my mother was like, I would describe you in three words: beautiful, loving, and strong. Why? Well, that is because those are the characteristics that I notice about you more than anything. While there are MANY wonderful things about you, these are the ones that stand out the most:

Beautiful: I can say with the fullest sincerity that you are the most beautiful mother anyone could have ever asked for; both inside and out. Your outer beauty just shines all the more when your personality comes through – it is amazing. Having a mother with the most beautiful of souls is something I will be grateful for for the rest of my life. It has inspired me in more ways than you will ever imagine.

Loving: Though harsh at times, your loving nature is something that has been a rock for everyone in this family for as long as I can remember. Even people from outside our family who have had the blessing to receive your love would credit you for brightening up even the most dullest of days. You have a God-given gift of being an amazing listener and healer, something that is rare to find. I am extremely grateful to have such a supportive and loving mother whom has always been there for me when I needed her the most.

Strong: Throughout our entire situation, I feel that you have been able to keep a level head for the sake of us. Although it may have seemed difficult at times, you always managed to make sure to be a source of reassurance when all of us needed it the most. Mama Bear, you are truly the rock of this family, and without you I do not know where we would be.

Happy Mother's Day, Mama Bear! Thank you for being the most beautiful, loving, strong, creative, funny, compassionate, dedicated, and amazing Mom in the entire world. Our family or the world would never have been the same without you, as your soul has the ability to just shine above all others. I love you very much!

Love always,

Your daughter Alyssa

May 13, 2012