Happy Birthday, Mom

Hi Friends-
So, today is my moms ??th birthday (I got your back, Mom) and I figured a tribute to Sue is a good high note to tie up 2015.

Susan Inman Russell was born to be a mom (and grandma!). A loving, caring, beautiful, smart, crazy, know-it-all mom. I say all that with 100% love because as much as we try to avoid it, most girls become versions of their mother. I don't know why we fight it so much - moms are great. Yes there are things that make us go "UGGGGHH" about our mothers but what other person in the entire world will ever love you like your mother loves you? In some cases, no one, but I'm one of the lucky ones. My mom and I are very much alike which is the root of most of our arguments. It would be much easier if she would just realize I'm always right, but that's neither here nor there. She is also the basis of most of my comedic material. It's pure gold, so thank you for that, mom :-)

I'm 35 but I will always need my mom. When I'm sick, whether it's mild or crawling-to-the-bathroom sick, I call my mom. When I don't understand the complicated insurance jargon on my company forms, I call my mom. When I need to know if I should test the expiration date of meat, I call my mom. When I need unused antibiotics, I call my mom. I mean my mom watches my dog every day while I'm at work, which I fear will probably come to an end when the grandbaby gets here but we'll cross that bridge when we get to it.

One of my favorite 'mom' memories is us cruising in her Oldsmobile with me sitting on the arm rest in the front seat (not super legal but I did buckle myself in) singing the classic Dolly Parton and Kenny Rogers hit 'Islands in the Stream.' It's our song not because of the meaning but because of our 'tradition' every time it came on in the car. To this day, every time I hear that song, I immediately think of my mom with her fab 80s hair beboppin' with me, the little girl who looked pretty much like a boy until I hit first grade. It will always be one of my favorite songs and will hold a very special place in my heart.  

Sue will always be my mom and I will always be her first born and nothing can change that. Last week we were talking about how I HATE talking on the phone and she pointed out that there will come a time when I will want to pick up the phone to call her and she won't be around. As morbid/depressing as that sounds it's a reality and I don't ever want that day to come. So, as one of your gifts I promise to call you more and not get exasperated when you ask me more than one question (haha).

Mom, I love you with all my heart and hope you have a wonderful year. I also hope this made you cry because you realized you raised such a wonderful daughter - hahaha!

Love,
Kimberly