Dear Mom...

Hi, mom! Today was more difficult than I thought. I miss you so much. It's our 2nd Mother's Day without you, and this one is harder than the first. I look more like you every day. Your sandy blonde hair with gray edges that you used to cover are growing in. I don't color mine as often, because it reminds me of you.

I feel closer to you when I'm in your kitchen creating. I go through your recipe box just to see your handwriting, because many of your best dishes are already assigned to memory. Today, I made dad baked chicken with gravy, rice, fried corn, and hot water corn bread...your favorites! I made him an apple pie too. You always made sure we were taken care of even on days when you were being celebrated. Don't worry, I'm making sure he remains spoiled like you left him!

Thank you for every talent, quirk, and creative eye you left me, but please never leave me in spirit. Your physical absence is painful, but the constant presence of your legacy brings me joy. Happy Mother's Day.

Love always, your babygirl.