A Mother's Love

I know I've talked before about my mom no longer being with us. And if you've lost your mom, you understand the hole that's left behind, one that never truly gets filled. It may sound cliché, but our moms are our first friend. They're the ones who know us for who we really are. Even as adults, there's comfort in believing your mom will always have your back.

Fifteen years have passed, and my mom is still very present in my life. When I think about her, I either smile or feel a little ache inside. A smell, a sound, a memory are simple things that still remind me of her. Like many mother-daughter relationships, ours wasn't always perfect, but one thing I know for certain is that her love will always be with me.

That's the kind of love I hope my children feel too. I hope they always know how fiercely I love them, that my very existence is wrapped up in them. I will always be Annie's mom. Cody's mom. And even though Julie is no longer with us, I will always be her mom too.

This new book, But I Love My Mom Too, means so much to me because it's centered on something as simple and timeless as a Mother's Day card. The story shows that a mother's love lasts forever, and that Mother's Day isn't just one day, it's every day. With that sentiment in mind, I thought it was only natural to bring the card from the story to life.

So this year, when you see me at my events (except Kroger's), you'll be able to pick up a real copy of the card featured in the book for free when you purchase your copy. It's my way of sharing a piece of that love, one card at a time.