My mother has done the same for me that most moms have done for their children... Changed my diapers, taught me to talk and to walk, helped me with homework, etc. what makes my mom special is the magic that she inserted for my brother and I as children. While we were at school she would decorate the house from top to bottom for whatever holiday it was at the time. She always went ( and still does) above and beyond to make us believe that the bunny had been there to decorate the house while we were gone. On a serious note, my mother has taught me so much, how to see the good in each person, no matter the exterior. How to take the time to listen to an elder that no one else may listen to that day. She takes the time to cook and bake and deliver foods to those who have nobody to help them, and she makes them feel special. She taught me faith through her actions, not through words. My mom isn't perfect, but she's close enough for me.

My mother was one of the most nonjudgmental people I've ever known. Her childhood was difficult and it formed her desire to offer an understanding heart to everyone - friends, strangers, husband and children, even popular celebrities. Never a negative word passed her lips about anyone no matter how odious they might have been. She was dearly loved by one and all because she was a safe haven.

Dear Mother,

You worked hard.
I cannot count how many of your patients sing your praises.
You sacrificed for the family.
In light of sky-high professional prospects, you saw fit to focus on us.
You served selflessly.
Papa and Grammy could not have survived their illnesses without your tireless care.
You enabled me.
To become a healthy, intelligent, honest man.

And so today.
You deserve praise and honor.

Love,
Your Son

My sisters and I can agree that our mom is the best mom in the world. She has helped us with many things, like when we are sick she has always helped us with anything that we need. She always helps us with our homework or any questions that we have. She taught us that we should help anyone no matter how hard, how to work together as a team and most importantly to love each other with great respect. She makes sure we have a great day even if the day isn't turning out so great. Love you Mom!!!

I believe my mother was the best mother in the world. My mom was diagnosed with cervical cancer when I was 4 years old. My mom did not let this stop her love and devotion to me. In 1996 my mom died from cervical cancer at the age of 34. My mom dressed me up to match her, made every holiday the best time of year, and loved me with every ounce of her heart and soul. She taught me how to be strong and fight until the very last minute no matter what the outcome will be. My mom is now my angel who stands by my side with everything I do. I love you mom. You are the best angel a daughter could ever hope for. Hometown-Warminster,PA

Inspired by: My Mother
Lynn Evon Schueck
By
MaryEllen Schueck

I Remember…

I remember the sacrifices that you made;
The clothes, the shoes, the money paid
And the times that were so rough.
To you, those sacrifices weren’t tough.
You always gave the best you had
And for that I am forever glad.

I remember happiness,
I remember fun,
I remember all of the things you’ve done;
The joy you brought to my life
The times you aided my strife.

I remember sorrow
I remember pain
For that, myself I have much to blame.
For you, sticking by me wasn’t hard
All though I kept choosing the wrong card.

I remember encouragement
I remember advice and
Sometimes I felt the imperfect splice.
But you never left or pushed me away
I was always welcome and you let me stay.

I remember the moments you’ve shared with me
And I cherish your love for now I see,
Just how much you mean to me
And I will pass this on to honor thee.

With love and gratitude always,
ME

Today and every day I give praise to my Mother. If it was not for her I wouldn't even be here. If it was not for her I wouldn't have the three beautiful children I have present in my life. If it was not for her I wouldn't have the 7 beautiful Grandchildren and one on the way that are in my life today. She has given me life filled with love and joy and for that I owe her everything. My mom is no longer here and there is not one day, one hour or minute that goes by that I do not think of her. She is the reason I breath and live. My Mother is my Hope, Love, Happy, Sad, Dark, Mad, Angry, she is the every being of who I am, and I'll Love her Forever. You only get one Mom, always cherish her.......

Our mother is the kindest, most unselfish person we've ever met. She has always put the needs of her family before her own. She nurtured her children and grandchildren while they were growing up, and she continues to be a source of inspiration for all of us. She is generous to a fault, and has always helped not only her children, but her nieces and nephews. She always has a smile for everyone she meets, and they are glad to have met her.
David and Christina Mastromatto

My mother has shown me the true meaning of unconditional love over the past nineteen years. When my father left, when my brother passed away; I found out who would always be there for me. I have undoubtably been a difficult child to raise, I am as stubborn as they come. Mom has never let that stop her work on me. I am proud of what we've been through together and the woman I am growing into because of her. I can only hope to be as strong as her throughout my life, because she has not and will not ever give up. My love and gratitude for her grow everyday. Thanks, Mommy.

Rachael Rowan

My mother taught me that no one is prefect.

My mom is a female superhero. She puts her heart into life day in and day out. She stays strong even when times are tough. She cares for our family and diligently works towards making our home a happy one. She fights for what she believes in, yet is gentle and kind at the same time. She works hard; where her love, care, and knowledge provide other mothers with the opportunity to love and care for their families. She deserves praise even when she does not expect or receive it. She is the best mother, and she is a wonderful friend.

Audubon, PA

Mom,

Can you remember me, the first day we met, the memories you gave me, or the day we said Goodbye? That horrible disease took this all away while you were here.
But, I can still remember your soft touch, your smiling face, your words of wisdom,
the sacrifices you made for me, the love you showed me, and the touch of your
hand on that terrible day we said Goodbye for now. They say that once we are called home again, we are reborn, free of all illness and disease. If this is so, when we meet again, together we will share our precious memories.
I miss you everyday, but hear your voice and see your smile, and for this I am grateful. Till me meet again, I will hold you close in my heart and wipe away the tears.

Mothers are supposed to have unconditional love and support for their children and mine does... but she also gives so much more. Ever since I was a little boy, my mom would have sacrificed anything for her children. She's pushed and disciplined me over the years, doing her best to ensure I was on the right track. She was a parent first, a friend second. I didn't always understand her methods, but I never doubted her purpose- to teach, guide and protect me. Now, as a parent myself, I look back on those lessons and realize how grateful I am to have her.

Ben Miller
Nazareth, PA

My mom has given ll she has and more to her children but especially to her grandchildren. She went above and beyond when I feel into a rough path during my life. She took custody of my oldest daughter who is now 18 and raised her as her own and I couldn't be more grateful or have more love for her then I do now. When I had married I had 2 more children a son and another daughter My marriage was very abusive and she took my son who was 3 at the time and my newborn daughter who was only 3 months old and raised them till I got my life straightened out. She has given up her freedom to do what she wanted and it was suppose to be her time when my brother and I hit 18 but instead of thinking of herself she sacrificed her life and all that she had to give and gave it to my children her grandchildren. I have always wished I could have been the mother that she has been to not only my brother and I but to her grandchildren. She is my rock and my stability as she is the same for my children. I Love You MoM and Thank You for making the sacrifices you did and still do today to give my children and I the stability and the love we all need.

Happy Mothers Day MoM

I Love You more then you will ever know

Penny Cope
Zionsville Pa

May I Tell You About My Mother?
Mother, may I become the Mom that you were
I am afraid I would not compare.
You always had time for me.
You were always there.
Mother, may I love my child
half as much as you loved me.
May I always have
your courage and your beautiful strength.
Mother, may I be
all to my child that you were to me.
May I always love them
and let them just be.
Mother, may I do
half of the wonderful things that you did.
Mother, may I say
how much I love you.
My mother was such a beautiful person the kind of Mother I am today was all due to the way she brought me up.. the sacrifices she made, the hard work she did, and through it all she never complained she loved unconditional and tho things were hard she never gave any complaints for love is what got her through ... her legacy she past to me and I hope that I have done the same and passed them on to mine..I miss her so very much and know she's watching from above.

I love my mom more than most know
Her strength and care never fail to show
She’s done well raising us five kids alone
Her hugs and kisses can cure any groan
I appreciate the sacrifices and all she does
I admire and look up to her, and not just "because"
Through all our struggles and the good times
As we work everything out, our bonding climbs
She is not just my mom but my best friend
We support each other and our growth will never end
There aren’t enough words to thank my mother
She’s meant to be happy and spend life with another.
Media, PA

I've never met anyone in my life emotionally stronger than my mom. Growing up, my middle brother went through a 7 year heroin addiction, and this past March, my dad passed away from pancreatic cancer. At age 65, she is nearing retirement, but continues to work in order to help me with my college loans, as I struggle to find full-time employment and continue to live at home. I have never seen a person go through as many trials and tribulations, and yet still provide for her three sons and ailing husband of 40+ years until the very end.
-Newtown, PA

Since I write elsewhere here, I know I'm ineligible for the contest, and that's fine. I just wanted to go on record and say that from the day my mother brought me home from the Childrens' Home Society of Florida until the day she died shortly after I turned 15, I never knew a day that I didn't feel her love for me.

Anything good in me or about me came from her.

My mom was born the youngest of 9 children, and lost her father when she was 3. Her mother was a single mom for the rest of her life. It was a tough childhood, but she was never bitter telling the stories.
My mom had my brothers and sister when she was young, and had me at age 40, which in those days wasn't common. She never drove, and was very "old fashioned" to me as a teenager. Sometimes I was a bit embarrassed at having to use public transportation to get to dr appts, or to the store. As I grew older and realized what a sacrifice that was for her, and how well she took care of me, cooked for our family (never boxed foods, only homemade!!) and cleaned. Now, in my 40's, I look at my mom, who has Dementia now, and know the amount of love and dedication it took to raise 4 children, and keep a marriage going strong for 65 years. I could only HOPE to accomplish what she has! I love you, mom.

My mother is the most controlling, manipulative, selfish person in the world. My earliest childhood memories are of physical and mental abuse. Growing up there wasn’t a family member that she did not fight with. Holidays were a special hell for us, with some of the most explosive arguments. Even to this day, she has not “mellowed with age”, demanding that others live their lives on her terms and paying dearly when they don‘t. Sadly, her grandchildren have learned that nothing is good enough in her eyes and dread the minimal time they see her. On my fathers death bed he told me that he felt sorry for me, being the only child, it would be my responsibility to take care her. In spite of all of her negative qualities I still love and respect her, stopping at her home every other day to check on her and help her. Admittedly, I read other posts with envy but I realize that in her own way she loves me too.

My Mom is the coolest person on the planet. She went to college in the 1930's and became one of the first women Lawyers. The class started with six, but she was the only one in her class of four graduates to actually practice. Today she is 94 and still sharp.

Despite being far from perfect, to me, my mother is the perfect example of the Proverbs 31 woman. She endured 3 years of my father's mocking of her faith, made sure I was in church every Sunday, and was as much of a godly influence as she could be to myself and my siblings. It was because of her consistent faith, that not only did my father come to accept Christ into his life, but at the age of 5, I did as well. Even while growing up, she made sure that we had clothes to wear, and food to eat. No matter how rough it was for my family financially, God through her, always provided for us, and she knew how to stretch a dollar! Her favorite ways of saving money, were hitting every garage and yard sale out there, going to the Salvation Army and/or Goodwill, but when it came to food, she KNEW where to find the bargains, and have it taste great!
My mother was also a prayer warrior in every sense of the word, and she taught me not only the importance of a personal relationship with Jesus Christ, but on how to trust Him in ANY situation. I saw this especially as she gave birth and raised two of the most special siblings I could ever have. It is also because of God using her in my life, that I learned how to stand for what I believe in, and for those who are being taken advantage of, and victimized. I thanks God for her everyday, and know that God has LOTS of special rewards for her in Heaven.

In October, 2009 I was diagnosed with breast cancer and underwent a double mastectory as well as a few other surgeries. My mom was my rock. She went to every treatment, waited hours during my surgeries and even visited me in the hospital during a blizzard. She watched my 2 small children when I needed to rest and made sure everyone was fed, my house was clean and that I was taken care of while my husband was at work. Then, a year later, she herself was disagnosed with an aggressive breast cancer. She handled her surgery and treatments like a warrior even though it was very tough on her physically. Now it was my turn to help her out as she helped me. That is what family is all about. You never have to ask for things, food just appears and work just gets done in our busy lives. Just when I thought we were in the clear and could get back to normal, my father suddenly had a stroke and died on April 10, 2012. He lived for 5 days on hospice while my mom held his hand until the very end. My mother is one of the strongest, bravest, most beautiful people in the world. Even though she is broken-hearted, she continues to be there for my sisters and I and our children. My daughter just made her First Holy Communion yesterday and my mom put on a smile and made it a wonderful day. She is the epitome of what a mother should be and what I hope to achieve in my life. She was a special education teacher for many years and shared her warmth and wisdom with those children as well.

Dear Mother Forever Your Son
by
J.T Richard

Dear mother forever your son
Through hard times we shared
you were always there (my mother)
Through hard times when we didn't have a dime
you were always there (my mother)
Daddy split he was gone
Stuck you with raising four boys on your own
That Inner city life was to crazy to raise your babies
Moved to the burbs for us a slight change
some how i still got caught up in the game
disappointing i became
but you never stop being (my mother)
That day i became a victim of foul gun play
dying on me death bed you stood over me to pray
to say
Dear God please keep my son alive
even though i became paralyze
together we thank God i survived
This which you overcame so long
only made you strong
I thank the lord above
for your endless love
I am so thankful to have you as my mother
Forever Your Son

J.T Richard
Pottstown PA

Just once I wish someone can help my mom. She raised me and my 2 sisters alone. Always went without so we can have. Always supported us...always puts us first. Even when my sister became a teen mom.....not once got upset just kept going. She never owned a home, her car is old..she deserves a .much needed break.

I never really got along with my mother. I always thought of her as a week woman! Until 11/6/11. My brother got killed ina car accident. We waited at the hospital for her to arrive. We had a wheelchair ready for her,(we thought she would need it) my brother was her favorite! She got there and we offered her the wheelchair, she looked at it sadly and said "NO, I'll walk" all five of her children walked behind her as she made her way to the room where my brother lay lifeless. She walked up to him, she said"OH Mike, you can rest now, we will take care of your boys" "don't worry about anything", said she loved him and then goodbye. It turned out she was stronger than all of us that day. This will be her first mother's day without him. Definitly realized she is a lot stronger than I thought!

My mother has been diagnosed with colon/rectal cancer at the age of 90 years old, making this Mother's Day extra special. She is handling the illness with great courage. The love she instilled in her children has enabled us to help her with all needs. May this Mother's Day bring her the peace and serenity required so we can be with her for the next one. Love you always, Mom.
Gene, Ken and Nancy

My Mom was my adopted Mom, she took me in when my "real" mother could not take care of me. She ended up being a single Mom, because of a bad choice of a alcoholic husband. But her sacrifices to care for me and my older sister set an example of love and care for us and others. What amazed me about her the most was while she had a very difficult life she still was generous and caring to everyone around her. We had a very large garden which was my responsibility to weed etc, and after eating what we could and canning a lot more she still gave away lots to other needy people. She worked all day and came home at night and did laundry for a widower who lived alone, He paid her like four dollars. When my cousins came down with Polio, she was there to help take care of them, I remember her rocking them to sleep, at the time we didn't how contagious Polio was. While she was not around a lot during day and busy at home at night, she tried her best to keep me out of trouble. I remember for fun we would play cards, board games or work in garden. It wasn't until I was in Army that she finally found some comfort after remarrying. Sadly she came down with Cancer and though becoming increasingly sick she did not tell me because she didn't want to worry me, I was in Korea. Finally the Red Cross called me to tell me my Mom was dying and I rushed home in time to see her before she died. When I got there we spent a few hours together before she died. I believe she waited for me, to say goodbye!

This is my first Mother's Day without my mother. She died on New Year's Eve. Even after her death, I unable to say that she was the perfect mom. I am unable to write sappy sentiments about her because she struggled with mental illness for pretty much her entire life after surviving an abusive childhood. My mother did her very best to take care of me and my siblings. The day before she died, I told her that she was a good mom. I didn't get to tell her thanks for making me who I am: a generous, empathetic person with a sense of humor.

My mom always woke me with a smile. Pretending I was a flower, she’d dress me saying “give me your stems”and giggle as she put on my pants. With a metal cookiecutter, she’d make my sandwich into a moon. Come summer, she’d hold my hand as we “jumped the waves” on CapeMay’s beach.
When you’re a child, life is about little things. If you are lucky enough to grow old and grow wise, this holds true.
I couldn’t fully appreciate my mother until I had children… because really great moms never let on how tough being a mom can be. By that standard, or any other, I have the greatest mom in the world.

DCC - it sounds like she *was* the perfect mom to you <3

My mom never did a selfish act. I know she loves me and my siblings all equally all for our own unique selves. I am in my 40's live in Bensalem Pa, she is in Maryland but I get to see her somewhat regularly. As children, she drove us where we had to go, she told us she loved us every day, she did without new clothes or a second car so she could pay to put braces on our teeth, send us to college, all those things that my dad worked hard all day for. She never once made us feel guilty for moving away and having our own lives. She was and is always there but never overbearing. My mom is wonderful, no dramatic story to tell, she is just my angel on earth and I love her dearly for how she loves me!

My mother: She sewed for anyone and everyone in an attempt to support 7 kids. Her fees were cheap but if you were broke, she would tell how to sew it yourself. She had a way of stretching food that would solve the world’s hunger problems. Our door was always opened; it was not unusual to see a strange body sleeping on the sofa. My mother usually wore hand-me-downs that she would fix to make them stylish but never quite succeeded. She was a forever optimist and that’s how she approached life. My father died early leaving my mother with 5 kids at home. She lived to 82, still with her great sense of humor.

Dear Mom, You have taught my sister and I how to become wonderful people. You have taking all of your time raising us 2 children. You have helped will the raising of 3 of your grandchildren. You have taking your mother into your home so you can help her with all of her needs, also your watching 2 of your great grandchildren so their mother can work. You're always thinking of others needs first and very rarely do you think for yourself first. You are such a very loving and caring mother, grandmother and greatgrandmother for all that you've done for others and all that we became because of your dedication. We all would like to "Thank you" for being the wonderful mother you are.We wouldn't be the people we are today if it wasn't for you. We all love you very much. Love your daughter, Jessica

This is my first year without Mom. Her battle against Alzheimer’s ended last July. I have to go on ..but how? I have 7 kids I learn for them. The memories, the lessons she taught me…I have to pass them on. Her hand was always there for anyone in need so I’ve passed her lessons of love to my kids. To honor her love I share memories and make our own so one day those will send hugs to my kids when they need them. I close my eyes and stay very quiet..maybe I will feel her hug me too!

My Mom taught all of us to love with an open and pure heart. Her lesson was simple…treat others the way you want to be treated and you live a life full of love. She made sure to teach each one of us to reach out to others for they may just need a simple hand up in life to get through a hard time. I can only hope that she smiles with pride and sees that I do my best to carry on what she so lovingly taught me of love.
Love,
Lauren

These are amazing stories and lessons of love, loss and living.
Thank you to everyone who has commented.
I can't wait to see new comments. Please keep them coming.

I took my wife to Wildwood this past weekend and, one morning, walked the boardwalk alone. My mother came to mind. She, a housewife and a high school dropout, and I were alone when I was 13 years old. I looked back to the hotel and saw what used to be The Rio where my parents used to take me on vacation yearly. It was now a stone slab. Like my mother, who passed in 2000, the Rio was also gone. But standing there reminded me of the sacrifices she had made for me. She adopted me at birth from her sister-in-law, adding me to her family that already had two children, ages 9 and 11. When my father passed, the children were 13 years older and had already left home. My mother found herself as a single parent, raising me alone on a fireman's pension and trying her best. She did everything she could to send me to Catholic school, saving money to pay the tuition for grade school and high school. She scraped and sacrificed, loving me as her own. But the one tradition that she would not give up after her husband, my father and blood Uncle, passed away was our August trip to Wildwood. My mother had diabetes and was very, sickly, finding it difficult to walk and would frequently be out of breath. I never understood her sacrifice truly until now when I walked the Boardwalk myself, two miles up and two miles back. As a child, she would go with me, walking the same amount, ensuring a happy time. A memorial bench caught my eye. The first name on the engraving was Patricia, my mother's name.

I am so grateful for my mother and all of the fond memories she has given me and the important lessons she has taught me. She is my rock that held us together when my daddy died even though I could see she was lost and distraught when he died very UN-expededly of a heart attack at the much too early age of 54. She gave me strength to get through those sad days. I love her so very much! I love watching her with my three children creating memories with them that they will forever cherish.

Most modern women would call themselves 'good mothers' and respect their kids as much as they love them. The modern mom is a devoted and involved parent. She frets if one of the kids is sick or hungry. She has time to play hide and seek with them and does her bit with genuine warmth and dedication. She prides herself on knowing pretty much of everything about them (at least as much as a mother can reasonably know). When the kids reach adolescence, the friendship equation blossoms, with communications touching just about everything under the sun.

She pats herself on the back on being a good friend to her children. All very well. But then she hears of her child getting a new age hair cut (all green and spiky) or a boy friend from another cast/creed/religion and suddenly all hell breaks loose. The professed equanimity does a double take and flies neatly out of the window. She is visibly shocked and indignant when she discovers a side to her child's personality that clashes with certain values and beliefs of her own. The modern mom steps back into time and asks herself a question an important philosophical one can a mother even be a friend to her kid?

Role change

Mothers will be mothers

from
tulip_madhu@sify.com

My mother spent most of her life like many other moms, caring for others. She joined the Coast Guard during WW 2 to earn money to help take care of her younger siblings. In the 50's she had my sister and in the 60's she had me. She had the utmost patience and kindness and treated everyone with dignity and honor. She passed in 1995 and is buried at Arlington National Cemetary.It was our way of "honoring"her.

My mom, Andrea Swensen Ferry, is probably one of the best mothers out there. She is caring, giving, loving & beautiful, while at the same time opinionated and bossy :) (hey, where do you think I got it from?). She believes in me & will do anything for anyone at the drop of a hat. Her own mother passed away when my mom was 30. She routinely reminds me how much that she misses her mother & that they were best friends – it reminds me to never take her for granted. Happy Mom’s Day to my mom & Grandmother Swensen!

~~A Mother's heart is like a rose, always open and always loving~~I miss you and I love you mom, R.I.P.

My mom inspires me every day. She was poor growing up & worked hard to make a better life for herself and us. My biological father never supported us in any sense of the word so she worked three jobs at times to make ends meet. My brother is handicapped & spent the 1st year of his life in CHOP. Every day is a struggle with him & she has met & continues to meet these struggles with pride & strength. My brother is 38 & been at a job for 15 years due to her strength & fight. My mother walked through every tragic moment with my grandmother through terminal cancer & kept the rest of our family together. She let us move in her home during the lows in our lives & never hesitated to open the doors to her home or her heart. Being diagnosed with stage 2 cervical cancer in 2005 just after being married, she was by my side for every moment I needed her. In 2007 my husband and I decided to have children via gestational carrier and again my mom did everything she could to support us from coming to appointments to helping me clean the home of my carrier. When my children were born there couldn’t be anyone happier. She is a mother of 3 and a grandmother of 5. She truly is the most selfless person I know. She is always there to support us without judgement. She has made it through some of the most difficult situations I have ever heard & come out even stronger. Knowing she is there for us means everything. I don’t think there is anyone stronger.

My mom was a single parent without the luxury of being single. It was only as I reached adulthood that I truly understood the amazing sacrifices Mom made for us. Despite having no family around to help, and a father who wanted nothing to do with any of us, Mom somehow managed to make miracle happen every day. She entered sweepstakes to win ball gloves for my brothers. She took us to Roosevelt Mall in the rain for Santa’s arrival to get silver dollars to take us to McDonald’s. She went to the rectory on Sundays after the last mass to beg for all the coupons from the un-sold Sunday papers. She cut up her wedding gown to make my sister a Communion dress. She stood with me on the ramp at the Vet during an Eagles game to sell chances for my high school so I would have enough money to buy boots to be in the drill team. She followed the doctors on rounds when my brother was in a coma so she could learn as much as possible to make the best possible decisions. Mom must have been tired. Of course, she tells us she loves us, but these memories are undeniable proof that she does. Never in any moment of my life have I once doubted that she loved me, or was proud of me, or would be there for me if I needed her. I hope every day that I do such an amazing job demonstrating love.

My Mother was my best friend and my biggest fan. She helped me through every hurdle. Her motto was "everyone has their turn in the boat" (troubles), she was always there for me, her friends and her family. When her time came to "be in the boat" with Cancer, I knew it was now my turn to help her. It's been 20 years and I've not seen anything like the battle she fought with grace and dignity. She made me strong enough, to see it through, and to help me lose my best friend. She simply was an amazing woman, and by her example made me a much better, stronger and kinder person. Hapy Mother's Day in Heaven Mom!

My mother is my best friend. Perhaps because I'm so much like her own mother, we didn't always get along when I was young. But, now that I'm well into my 30s we talk ever single day. She knows more about me than anyone. She lives in Florida which still makes me sad, but I am grateful for the chance to talk to her sometimes 3 or 4 times in one day. She's older now and she often talks about when she'll pass. She once shared with me, " I remember really knowing my mom was gone when I went to call her." I know I'll feel the same impact when her time comes. Whenever I'm tired or too stressed at work and I think I might not call her that day, I remember the second half of her story about her own mother, " Don't forget to call me while I'm still here. You'll get a bust signal if you try to call heaven!"

“You should enter this contest. I don't care what you write, and I won't even read your entries. I just want you to win. I won't expect a cut from the money, either.”
~My mother, telling me about this contest.
My mom, mother of 9, thinks she’s nothing special. She doesn’t get the recognition that say, single parents or army wives do. It takes a different kind of courage to rise at 6 AM every morning, juggle appointments, orchestra lessons, house maintenance, homeschooling, and in between get 5 hours of sleep. When we tell our mom how great she is, she tends to laugh it off. She doesn’t know she’s the prettiest, classiest, strongest mother I know. She has a degree from Columbia University, but gave that up to raise her children. She is that woman who’ll cook dinners for anyone going through a hard time while having a splitting headache herself. No, she didn’t battle cancer, didn’t win awards. Yet she deserves recognition for being that woman who stays in the background, so other people can shine.

My mother is a beautiful lady. I tell her that often. She took care of me all of my growing up years. Although she had to work a full time job, I can't ever remember her NOT being there whenever I needed her to be. She taught me love and respect and honor without saying anything. She lived that way. She was the greatest listener and remembered more of what I told her than I did. I am blessed to have her with me now, as she recently turned 92. In the last couple of years she has become like my daughter. It is the toughest role to play (the reversal role) and I pale in comparison to the mother she has always been to me. She still is my best listener, but because of short term memory loss, she doesn't remember. I am blessed to still have her with me, and I love her more than words could ever express.

The stone in my rose garden reads, "Those we hold in our hands for a little while, we hold in our hearts forever”. The garden is a visual reminder that planting seeds of love, and "doing unto others as you would have them do unto you" return blooms of beauty that forever grow stronger and more fragrant. My mother taught us all to leave the world a better place than when you came into it. The year after I planted that garden, the first rosebud appeared on Mother's Day. I will love you and miss you forever.
Laura

How do you sum up a woman who means the world to you? How do you put in words the gratitude you have towards her? How do you explain to people the love she gives you? You simply can't. Six years ago my mom's first born daughter was murdered at age 24. So no Mother's Day will ever be joyous or happy for her, but she lives in memory of my sister. She lives for her grandchildren. She lives for her family. It is the love of a Mom that shapes this world and my Mom is truly my inspiration.

(A Mothers Day Poem)
Way back in nineteen fifty three,
there was a grad. from New Jersey,
she came across the P'burg bridge,
met up and packed her then luggage.
She met a guy who's name was Bob,
in her eyes a huge heartthrob,
they soon would wed and there would be,
2 additions to the family tree.
Soon life would take a little turn,
Bob's health would cause a new concern,
Her strengths were there to ease the day,
on when those nights were really gray.
The days ahead would work out fine,
Life once again would be divine,
But years have passed, and now with you,
our roles have changed, your thoughts confused.
But its ok, when you look up,
your covers I will surely tuck.
and in your heart I know you see,
you'll always remember what you mean to me.
So on this day I applaud your strengths,
your patience, perseverance went to great lengths,
I love you mom in every way,
Wishing you a "Happy Mother's Day"

My Mom, my advocate. Words cannot explain how she has helped me be who I am today. As a special needs child, my mom stood up to people at school and in the community who did not understand or realize my abilities. She supported me through all the rough times. A single mom who worked 7 days a week but then would take me to appointments and be there no matter how exhausted she was. She taught me how to love myself and to never give up. I would not be where I am today without her. Now, I am able to help other children with special needs and use the same support and encouragement my mom gave me. I love you mom!
Warrington

My mom has done so much for me throughout my childhood. Everything she's done from the day I was born was done to make my life easier. My mom stayed home with my sister and I when we were very young. My dad worked many nights and weekends, so mom was left to do much of the day to day child care herself. When we were older, she went back to school to become a nurse so that she could help us with college costs. Nursing is a very tough job. She worked long and hard so that my sister and I could graduate debt free, which is something I appreciate so much now when I hear how hard it is to pay off school loans. When I became a mother, my mom drove thousands of miles to come stay in my cramped little house and help me out during those first sleep deprived days home with both of my babies when having an extra hand and someone to talk to mattered so much. When my son was 9 months old, he was diagnosed with cancer. My mom made the trip to our house more times than I can count to help us out. She doted on my kids and provided some much needed extra love and attention for her granddaughter during a very scary year. My own health has hit a rough patch recently and my mom travels up for every one of my hospital stays to tend to the kids so that my husband can continue to work. I don't know what I would have done without her during these tough times. I am so grateful to my mom for all she's done for me throughout my life. She is my rock. I love her so much!

MY MOM IS OUT OF THIS WORLD SHE MEANS EVERYTHING TO ME SHE HELPS ME OUT WITH MY PETSITTING JOBS SHES SAD CAUSE SHE RUNS OUT OF MONEY FOR FOOD SHOOPING SHE HELPS EVERYBODY WITH STUFF SHE HELPS ME WITH THE 4TH OF JULY PARADE I WOULD DO ANYTHING FOR HER SOMETIMES HER CAR BREAKS DOWN I OFFER MY CAR TO HER IF SHES WANTS IT I WOULD DIE FOR MY MOM I JUST LOVE HER GOD BLESS YOU MOM FROM UPPERSOUTHAMPTON HAPPY MOTHERS DAY IF YOU DONT WIN I WILL GIVE YOU $500 TO HELP OUT LOVE YOU MOM

My father abandoned my mother with 6 children. He was a WWII hero and became an alcoholic and eventually a street person. My mother was only 32 yrs old with 6 children, and was without a home or money. She swallowed her pride and went for assistance. The welfare system is not like it is today. She stood in line for food there were no food stamps. She kept us together which was a great feat. She remarried a few yrs later and her 7th child was born. My stepfather became ill and died leaving her again with nothing. She somehow managed to pinch every penny out of a dollar and we all grew up and became hard working adults. She is 81 yrs old, has had a heart attack and a stroke. She lives alone and still has to struggle to pay the bills since her SS check is very small. She is in need of a new sofa and chair so if I win ...I would love to purchase them for her. She literally never owned a new piece of furniture, things have always been hand me downs. She is the best mom in the world.

This mother’s day, my mom means more to me than ever before, if that’s even possible! In July of last year, my mother was diagnosed with stage four lymphoma. It has been a long, difficult road since than, but she has done more than just beat her cancer; she’s triumphed over it! I have always had the upmost respect for my mother, as she raised me mostly on her own. She is the funniest, most passionate woman I know and I am so glad to still have her in my life! This mother’s day we are not only celebrating the life of my mother, we are celebrating living!

My mother is an amazing woman. As a grown man I realize that over the years she has kept me grounded (contrasting those times she actually grounded me when I was younger). She played a significant part of molding me into the man I am. We were not wealthy but my mother never let my sister or I want for anything..yet she also taught us the value of working hard and earning what we need. She's funny, street smart, popular & anyone who knows Honey knows she's the unofficial Mayor of South Philly.

My mom, grandmom, BEST FRIEND. My mom is biological grandmother. She raised me since I was 2month old. She has never asked me for anything. When I had children, she quit her job to take care of my two boys. When I needed dipers, milk she would give me her last dollar to get it. She wouldn't have milk in her house. She raised me to be independent, to protect my temple, tought me how to raise my boys to be men. She has done some much more than I couldn't explain it into 100 words. She 74 yrs old & have a difibulator in her heart now. never been out of the US would love for her to see some clear blue water one day. She deserves it. I LOVE her with all my heart.

A proud Pennsylvania Dutch South Whitehall native, my mother instilled never giving up, never forgetting where you come from, and always embracing others lovingly without judging. Through our adolescence- my little brother and I kept her on her toes, and sometimes challenged her more than necessary. But my mother (“Pepper” to others) makes certain that our growing pains and bumps in the road were only seeds sowing a plentiful future, and she continued to raise us with un-ending love. We’ve lost a lot over the years, and without her- we’d never understand what we’ve gained through it all.

These are wonderful.

Keep them coming, and please try to remember to include the name of your or your mom's hometown in the Philadelphia area.

My mother is my hero. That's it!

Mother, how I wish I could hold you just once more. My mother made me the person I am today. I learned lessions from her that I have passed on to my own children and they are what keeps me alive today. My mother did it all for me and my brothers but the thing she did the best and meant the most was her love. My mother may not have been perfect but the impact on my life now is what makes me strong now that I am fighting cancer. I get the lession Mom, I do this for my children because they need me and my grand children need me. Thank you Mom, I am not ready to join you now but someday we will hold each other again.

My Mother was her older brother's first birthday gift. It was 1942. She was very lucky to live after multiple surgeries before her own first birthday. The cause of her birth defects were never determined and she grew to be a very happy child. She never met her father as he was killed soon after her birth in WW2.
Her family did not even realize that she was rather deaf, even though she was born with one ear, she had taught herself how to lip read and spoke normally.
My mother and incredible force of fierce love and intelligence. Her life has been difficult as the prejudices regarding her appearance and deafness were often treated with cruelty. She never let that hold her back! She preaches against bitterness and when talking to her, she reminds me to be thankful, grateful, and to love first. She has taught me the strength it requires to be a good person and now a mother myself.
She named me Christina, after the Dolly Parton song. If you listen to the song it is obvious how much she cherishes me too!
She works very hard everyday as a sales associate at WalMart and cares for my father as he is currently a nursing home.
Happy Mother's Day to all!
Tina
Hellertown, PA

My mother was a very caring women who raised 6 children - 5 boys and 1 girl. She never turned anyone away and was always ready to put on an extra plate, make up an extra bed or extra meal for the needy. My point, I guess that trickled down. Her good example lives on. Many years ago my brothers wife walked out on him and a young daughter. I opened my home to help as my mom would & got the most wonderful reward. I never had children biologically & thought that was Gods plan, and excepted that, till Becky needed a mother figure in her life, one day led to another our love deepened to that of a Mother/Daughter. Her first Mothers Day after arriving in my home, she made a drawing for me "I LOVE YOU MOM" my heart melted. (Never thought those words were ment for me) There were so many concerns for her future, with the example of her "Bio-Mom". However the trickle of my mom's love,and example did what maternal lineage should do. I call my niece. "My daughter" and I am "Her Mom" I am so happy to say today she is a loving "MOM" of two boys and a shinning example of what a Mom "should" be. If you read this far you now know this is a story of "Three Generations of Moms" I thank God for my mother and what she taught me as God did have a plan for me.To be gifted with "my daughter" and teach her how to be the best "Mom" and that all mom's are not bad, if they are...you CAN change the pattern. Thank You for reading and God Bless all women who mother and make a change in the life of a child!

My mom can be described in three words: Kind, strong, supportive. She of course taught my sisters and I the basics: talking, walking, abc's and 123's. But she also taught us right from wrong, helped us all build a strong character, taught us manners and how to be respectful. Growing up she stayed home with us while my dad worked and once we hit the school age she went right back to work to help give us not only what we needed, but everything we wanted (within reason of course). Then she became involved with the same fire company my dad belongs to. That's when she taught me what it's like to be so proud. She was the first female to accomplish a lot within the department and continues to hold her ground. She runs into the burning building with one goal: to help. Now, she is helping teach the same basic's to my niece and after the summer when my little one arrives she'll be doing the same with the first little boy of the family. My mom has been the backbone, the strongest support system and just an overall inspirational person. Happy Mother's Day Mom!
Lansdale, Pa

I know this is a contest about our mom’s but I decided to be different and write about me. I was a single mom for so many years. Working full-time and still trying to find time to spend with my daughter was no easy task, as I am sure many of you know. I managed to raise a beautiful little girl into this extraordinary woman that she is today. I couldn’t be more proud. She has a full-time job at a law firm and she studies at night to someday become a lawyer herself. I never had to worry about her falling with the wrong crowd because she always rose above the influence. She is respectful and kind, always willing to help another. We never had much, but what I could give her, she was always thankful. Not too long ago, I watched her as she was walking home from the bus stop. There were children playing ball and as it bounced at her feet, I thought “Oh no, not while she has her best clothes on”, but much to my surprise, she leaned over, picked up the ball and began to play with the kids. I could do nothing but watch. When she finally walked in the door, I said to her “How did I do such a good job with you, when we struggled at times and nothing on other occasions”. She put her arms around me and said with a hug, I guess you had a good teacher. So in the end, this is about my grandmother who raised me. Thanks Nan!

I’m so grateful, not for what my mom taught me, but for what she didn’t teach me. She didn’t teach me to show up for work on time, she taught me to be early. She didn’t teach me to do your job, she taught me to always do more. She didn’t teach me to love the finer things, but she did teach me that gravy on bread was a great dinner, and that no one’s name needed to be on my jeans. She didn’t teach me to be a girl, she taught me to be a strong woman.

My Fantasy Mother
My Fantasy Mother would tell me she loved me everyday. She would snuggle in bed with me at bedtime and read me stories. She would take me for walks and hold my hand. She would tell me how proud of me she was when I accomplished something important. Her house would be full of love and laughter and possibilities. She would never favor one child over another. She would help me make decisions that would have lasting impacts on my life. She would never wash my mouth out with soap. I sometimes wonder how I ended up with my mother instead of your mother.

my mom didnt always give me what i wanted but gave me what i needed. she thought me not to count my days but to make my days count. she thought me to stand my ground and to do what i belive is right. as a nurse she always put the needs of others before her own. she thought me that life is short and make the best out of it, live every day like your last because tomorrow is not promissed. she showed me love, care and displine. she made me who i am today, thats why you are/were the best mother. i will always remember you. i love and miss you.

My Mom deserved to have a better life than she did. Shortly after I was born, my father bailed out of the marriage and left her to raise me by herself---this during the time when women didn't have the career opportunities that they now enjoy. She labored long hours in a textile factory, and then, when I was about 13, took a job with the post office, where she retired after 31 years. She was always there for me, whether it was to help me get through a stinky divorce, help me out financially or just lend an ear when I needed to sound off to someone. She adored my kids and spoiled them as most grandparents do. For her "reward," she was diagnosed with bladder cancer, which then spread to her kidneys, ovaries and finally into her bones. She was hospitalized several time for surgeries and treatments; because she passed away during the night, I received a terrible phone call from the hospital early on a Saturday morning telling me she had died. I never got the chance to say goodbye and regretfully, I never told her just how much she meant to me. I know she's in Heaven, and I hope she's reading this now. Mom, I love you and miss you.

“One of seven boys?” Such was the incredulous refrain of my youth whenever someone discovered our mother had seven sons. It was quickly followed up with an empathetic: “God bless your mom.”

Indeed, she was blessed – with many unenviable records held in the Maternal Hall of Fame: number of peanut butter and jelly sandwiches made; shoelaces tied; pants hemmed; emergency rooms visited; flowers trampled; spelling words tested; games attended; restless nights spent worrying; and Advil taken.

Mom is indeed one for the record books, and I suppose she has her seven sons to thank for that!

My wife and I would always comment that to a fault, my Mom put her kids (and then her grandkids) ahead of herself every day of the week, and twice on Sunday! After a short but courageous fight against lung cancer, my Mom passed away a mere 2 days before my first son was born. She had seen at least one kid born from each of my siblings but never got to see any of my children being born. Up until the minute of her death, I could see her fighting to stay alive just to hear the news about the birth of my first. The question soon became what would I do if my Mom passed and the funeral was the same day as my first being born. I decided to let fate decide. And being the great Mom that I had, she made it easy for me by not having me in a position to have to make a decision. She passed on a Monday and my son was born on Wednesday. I was now able to see my first being born and still make it to the viewings and funeral on Friday. That's my Mom. Giving up everything, including fighting for her life, for us. I miss her every day.

Joanne Lapent
My Mom raised 6 children on her own, and has been hard of hearing for 50 years so it was a struggle for her to get a job to support us when my Dad left when I was just 10 years old. All 6 of us kids grew up with healthy, strong and respectful. She is a great mother, and with me being second to the youngest of the 6, I am 50 years old now, she is STILL there for me if I ever need anything. I had my daughter at 19 years old, and she helped me raise her. My Mom is now 82 years young, and I am blessed that I still have her in my life. It is hard for me when she needs me to help plan her funeral because it is something that I never want to think about....but I am honored that she repsects my opinion. Love you Mom, Happy Mother's Day.

Joanne Lapent
My Mom raised 6 children on her own, and has been hard of hearing for 50 years so it was a struggle for her to get a job to support us when my Dad left when I was just 10 years old. All 6 of us kids grew up with healthy, strong and respectful. She is a great mother, and with me being second to the youngest of the 6, I am 50 years old now, she is STILL there for me if I ever need anything. I had my daughter at 19 years old, and she helped me raise her. My Mom is now 82 years young, and I am blessed that I still have her in my life. It is hard for me when she needs me to help plan her funeral because it is something that I never want to think about....but I am honored that she repsects my opinion. Love you Mom, Happy Mother's Day.

Philadelphia, Pa

In the wake of my grandmother's recent passing, my mother has taught me the most important thing of all - strength.

My mom corrected my grammar all the time. This always impressed me, because I was about ten at the time. She also manages to take care of eight children, three cats and a dog every day. Lord knows I cannot fathom what kind of mental condition possessed her to choose a 24-hour workday with no tangible paycheck, but she did it, and here we are, very much the better for it. I would wish her a long life, but considering her diet of fruits, vegetables and the tears of illiterate youth, she doesn't need the help. Love you, Mom.

My mom, Carol Louise Snyder, epitomizes maternal sacrifice. Possessed by a desire to see her offspring happy, yet simultaneously sobered by a duty to instill values such as integrity and respect in her kids, my mother devoted her life to looking out for her children's best interest. As a single mom, she worked two jobs so that she could earn enough money to keep us a house close to our friends, yet still managed to be at all the baseball games, Hi-Q matches, and wrestling tournaments that we, her children, decided were important. I specifically recall my mom crying one time, and the indelible image will remind we why I can only hope to honor her for the rest of my days: she was crying because her dad died. Good parenting is never the easy thing to do, but good parents prepare us for the rest of our lives.

Jacob P. Buttery

My mother, Martha Forcinito, is a very strong person who needs something she has given my recently deceased father and the rest of our family "LOVE". My mother has basicly given up her last nine months to completely take care of my father who was suffering with liver cancer and she did everything for him( I mean everything). This was very hard for her because she is in her mid 60's and my father become bed ridden and she took care of him and made his last few months as comfortable as possible considering the circumstances. IT was extremely hard for her because he wouldnt allow her to get any help in the form of a nurse or aid. Throughout our lives she took care of us(four children) and when we left she took care of my father. I love her and want everyone to know that she did an amazing job taking care of my father,

Mark

“What, you don’t want to eat the dinner I made you? Then drop dead!” Those words, which my mother often addressed to me during my childhood, speak volumes about the woman I called Mom. She was a devoted Italian mother who expressed her maternal love through her cooking. But she was also a high-strung woman whose frazzled nerves often caused her to speak without thinking. I relish the memory of Mom serving a dish of pasta with a side of insult. Her meals were well-rounded, but her tongue was as sharp as aged Parmesan. Mamma mia! How I loved her!

My mother is a woman whom I admire and adore. She has done her absolute best to raise my siblings and myself and through all of the adversity that she has faced she has done a phenomenal job. I am in awe at all that she has accomplished and overcome in my lifetime. She is a woman that radiates kindness and is loved by all who know her. I love and respect her and am grateful to have been blessed to have her as mine.
For Peggy from Norristown from Chantelle with all of my love.