Dear Connie

I always said you were my second mom, and it still holds true today. When my mom wasn't there (such as at school when I had to do a demonstration in class and forgot one of the ingredients), you stepped in and helped me out ("Here's a handful of quarters - go get as much 7-Up as you need out of the vending machine.").

You listen to my stories, laugh at my jokes (and don't act surprised when one is actually funny), and never say "no" when I want to come see you.

You always know just what to say...you, like my own parents, are wise well beyond your 29 years. :) You're a good listener, but you're also a wonderful advice-giver. I have never questioned how Tara could be best friends with her mother. You're a fantastic friend and an amazing person to know.

Thanks, too, for letting me be friends with your daughter. I guess you just knew that in spite of the fact that I could have been a VERY bad influence on her, that she was strong enough to instead be a wonderfully good influence on me. You raised her right, Connie, and she's taught me a lot over the years. (I guess I need to thank her for putting up with me for so long!)

You have an easy laugh that makes me smile, and a gentle voice that calms me down. I always feel important when I talk to you, and whatever issue I'm battling at that moment seems to be the only thing you care about right then. You somehow know exactly what to say and how to act to show me what I'm doing is stupid, without ever making me feel bad about myself. Thank you.

Plus, you make delicious oatmeal chocolate chip cookies. And I'm pretty sure the number of those I could down in one sitting would rival five pieces of cake.

I love you, Connie!

Love,
Daughter #2