today is fantastic b/c it is my mom's birthday! i got to spend time with my family and we ate a delicious dinner. although i don't get to spend as much time with them as i'd like, i really cherish the moments i have with them. my mom is incredible. i have realized, even though she may not accept my life and my future goals, she loves me in her own way - the best way she knows how. even when she isn't crazy about something, she still supports me in her own manner. without her, i wouldn't have so many opportunities and for that i couldn't be more thankful.

Happy Birthday Momma Bear!!! I love you so much. :)