Happy Birthday, Mama Bear!

Today, we're celebrating because one of the most important people in my life is celebrating their birthday today.... It's my Mumma Bear's Birthday!

But let me tell you something about her.... My Mum is not just a "Mum"... 

that's a mini Kristy on the right!

She's been my cheerleader from the very beginning

She's the one that has never doubted my abilities

She's the one who went to every school presentation and event when I was growing up 

She's the one who's taken me to umpteen doctors appointments and, even today on her birthday, made the decision to bring my haematologist appointment forward a week because she didn't want to see me struggle any longer

She's the one who asks nurses to use the baby needles when giving me blood tests so I don't end up with egg sized bruises

She's the one who knows that sometimes, the only way I'll feel better is if I cry

She's the one that believes in every dream I have and who knows I'll achieve whatever I set my mind to 

She's the one who picks up the pieces when things go wrong

She's the one who believes me when I told her that this boy from America was the one

She's the one who has taken Jesse in just like he was her own son

She's the one that flapped around like a Mother Duck on my wedding day and stressed over every detail because she wanted it to be absolutely perfect 

She's the one I know that I'll always have a good day out with

She's the one who spoils Chanel absolutely rotten and loves her to pieces

She's the one who has had the same hairstyle for at least 30 years and even once had me rocking it ;P (that's me on the right)

She's the one who taught me that family always comes first (and the one who I've forgiven for those ugly tassled hippie jeans you can see in the back of that picture - though Mum, you still probably have them at the back of your wardrobe :P) 

She's my best friend, my mentor, my cheerleader, my nurse, my fixer-upper, my farm heroes strategist, my shopping buddy, my chauffeur, my original +1, but most importantly - she's my Mum. 

So Happy Birthday, Mama. I love you more than words!

And just for fun, here's SIL Mama at my age! People always say I'm the odd thin one of the family, but we were exactly the same at the same ages! (and that's my cousin Ange in the sunglasses!)

But tell me, what's one thing that makes your Mum special?

My Mum is one of the most selfless people I know - she will always put her family (and that includes Jesse) before herself and does everything she possibly can to keep us all happy, healthy and safe. 

PS: A humongous thank you to those of you who have already voted for us in the first round of the Homies Awards. They don't make it a breeze to vote so we really really appreciate it! If you haven't already voted, find out how you can help us spread the Southern In-Law love here. This could be the perfect opportunity to help us to grow the blog and spread the word and make it even better for you!

And an extra thank you to the extra special SIL readers who share the blog with their friends and family on any given day! <3