Just one more candle and a trip around the sun

Happy 50th 39th Birthday Mama Lisa! 

(because "mommies never get older than 39", right mom?)

Today is my mother's birthday, and I don't think she is fond of the idea of being "half a century" in age. But that's ok, because I'm embracing it for her. 

Happy Birthday Mama! 

Fifty!

Fiddy!

50!

5-0!

Roman numeral L! 

And since I never did a sappy post on Mother's Day, proclaiming to all the hundreds of thousands of my readers (false) about how I really do have the Best Mom Ever, let me share these values and virtues that this gorgeous, selfless, half-marathon training, margarita pizza making, fifty year old woman has instilled in me.

Lisa Louise's Life Lessons: 

1. "Wear something decent and look presentable."

Ever since I could dress myself, she has been reminding me that "there is a time and a place for gym shorts and a t-shirt". Seeing as a good 75% of my wardrobe is comprised of Nike running shorts and cherished t-shirts, I should probably tattoo this mantra to my forehead.

Please don't kill me for posting this.  I had to bring it out of hiding because 1) even at nine months pregnant you were a total babe and 2) I finally understand my affinity for Jeep Cherokees and navy and white stripes! It all makes sense now.

2. Hospitality. Hospitality. Hospitality. 

A home is for bringing people together, sharing a good meal, and making your guests feel as special and loved as possible. But before they get there, you better get that house looking as good as it can.

I am wearing Little Mermaid socks and you are wearing pants that words can't even describe, yet somehow your big beautiful smile is the focal point of this picture. 

3. "Everything in moderation."

From ice cream, to Facebook, to exercise, to shopping, to anything... everything worth doing should be done in moderation. 

Possibly my favorite picture, ever. Gonna need to slap a frame on this one. 

4. "Take pride in all that you do."

You are constantly presenting yourself to the world around you. In your actions, your words, and your completion of seemingly meaningless tasks. In what way do you want to be portrayed?

Hilton Head, South Carolina, 1996. My first visit to her old stomping grounds.

5. "You catch more flies with honey 

than with vinegar."

Most people want to be around someone who is oozing sunshine, positivity, and kind words . When you are nice to someone (ie: a receptionist), they are generally more likely to help you out.  When all you have to offer is negativity and a whiny voice, you will probably only attract other whiny pessimists.

Hilton Head, fourteen years later.  

Happy birthday Mom. I love you more than a lifetime full of Diet Coke, dark chocolate M&Ms, and Friday Night Lights.

Let's get this party started!

Post title reference: "Trip Around the Sun" - Jimmy Buffett featuring Martina McBride