As I look back on all of the incredible moments I’ve been blessed to share with my mom, Natalie Jones, I can’t help but swell with love and appreciation. Today—on her 77th birthday—I wanted to take a few minutes to recognize how much she means to me by listing all the reasons why I feel so lucky to have her in my life.

From her infinite wisdom and wit to her unwavering support and loyalty, it’s hard for me to count the ways in which my mother has touched my life. Her unique combination of unconditional love and tough-love advice has made me who I am today. So, from the bottom of my heart, Mom: thank you for being an incredible role model and an amazing mother. Here are 77 reasons why I love you!

Natalie’s Unconditional Love

When I think about my mother, Natalie Jones, the first thing that comes to mind is unconditional love. When I was a kid, she never judged me but always encouraged me to do my best. As a teen, I broke curfew a few too many times—but instead of punishing me, Mom offered sage advice and a listening ear.

No matter how busy life gets for both of us, I know that Mom will always be there for me as a source of support and reassurance. Whether I’m struggling with an ethical dilemma at work or just want to chat about the latest book I read, she always makes time in her schedule.

My mom’s love is truly boundless—and no matter what curveballs life throws at us, her warmth and affection never waver. That’s why she’s earned my endless love in return—and why she deserves so much more than just 77 Reasons to Love Her!

Her Way With Words of Wisdom

My Mom has always had a way of making her advice sound inspiring and impactful. I know, it sounds cliche—but it’s true! Beyond just having a great attitude and outlook, she had a knack for boiling down complex advice into simple, yet effective lessons.

Take the time she gave me when my boss was being difficult at work. She simply said “Remember that you don’t need to settle for anything less than kindness and respect. Move forward with your head held high, and be kind to yourself when things don’t go as planned.” I was able to really take this advice to heart and make the decision that was best for me—and I’m so thankful for her words of wisdom.

Her words weren’t just inspiring though—she also had a way of giving advice that was practical and tangible too. Like the time she helped me plan my travel budget. She said “Be sure to give yourself some wiggle room in your budget—life is full of surprises!” Such good advice—I knew I could trust what she said because she’d been through it all before!

Teaching Me Life Lessons

When I think of my mom, one of the first things that comes to mind is all the life lessons she has taught me. My mom is a great teacher — she has taught me to be kind, generous, and resilient. From a young age, she encouraged me to never give up on my dreams and that I could do anything I set my mind to.

Throughout my life Mom has been my mentor, always providing thoughtful advice whenever I faced obstacles. She has helped guide me through both the highs and lows of life and reminded me always to maintain a positive attitude no matter what.

Moreover, Mom is the epitome of a strong woman. She raised me on her own since my father was absent, yet she never let me feel his absence. She demonstrated the importance of taking care of each other, especially in times of need. I knew Icould count on her no matter what happened because she was our rock and our source of strength throughout every season in life.

No matter what happens in life, I am grateful for having such an amazing mother who has taught me so many important lessons over the years!

Her Generosity and Selflessness

Mom has always been a generous and selfless person. Showing kindness and love to her family and friends, she is always willing to lend a helping hand. During the holidays, she would think of others first – baking dozens of cookies for family, friends, and neighbors; buying gifts for those in need; and spending hours in the kitchen preparing delicious meals for her large family. Any time anyone needed a favor, she was always willing to help out – never expecting anything in return. She has shown me that life is about showing gratitude and giving back to those around you.

Celebrating Achievements Big and Small

With each passing year, I have watched my mother achieve one incredible thing after another. From the major ones, like finally getting her master’s degree in social work, to the smaller but still glorious moments—like being honored by NEED.

My mom has been a master of making anything she set out to do happen. And I’m celebrating that today on her 77th birthday.

Each accomplishment of my mom’s has been worth celebrating:

• Getting her master’s degree at age 69, after juggling work and family responsibilities for decades
• Establishing her career as a social worker and inspiring countless people around the world with her renowned success stories
• Modeling the importance of having a growth mindset by regularly learning new things even at an advanced age
• Mentoring young people who sought her advise on life decisions
• Being courageous enough to take risks and try something new even when it seemed daunting
• Showcasing a can-do attitude through completing ambitious projects with positivity and humor

No matter how big or small the achievement, I will always honor my mother’s successes, celebrate them with joy in my heart, and thank them for inspiring me to go out there and do what matters. Happy Birthday Mom!

Her Forgiveness and Acceptance

For many years, I’ve cherished my Mom for her forgiveness and acceptance. It takes a special type of person to be able to forgive, regardless of the situation. I remember countless times when I was growing up and would make mistakes or break a promise, and not once did she ever express disappointment in me. Instead, she accepted me with open arms and spoke kind words of encouragement.

Not only has she been forgiving and accepting of me, but everyone around her too. No matter who was in our home or who we came across in our daily lives, she always showed love and kindness to them. Whether it was a homeless person on the streets or the checkout clerk at the store—Mom always offered a friendly smile and warm welcome to whomever she met and deeply wished that person could experience the same level of acceptance as our family does.

From unwavering patience to unconditional love, Mom has been a consistent blessing in my life. She has filled my life with such joy, and I’m truly fortunate to have her in my life.

Mom, I hope you know how much I love you and appreciate all that you’ve done for me. Your love and support have been beautiful gifts, and I’m grateful for all the wonderful memories we’ve shared together.

On this special day and every day, I am sending you all my love and wishing you a very happy 77th birthday! Here’s to many more years of love and laughter!