My mother told me that as long as I was child, i.e. she had to take care of me, we couldn't be friends – our friendship wouldn't begin until I became adult – meaning, taking care of myself, not based on a number. I didn't get it then but I understood once I in fact became fully independent. My mommy went home to be with the Lord almost 3 years ago and I miss her EVERY SINGLE DAY. I am grateful, however that before she passed, we enjoyed many years of an adult relationship – I got to know her as a woman and as a mother via adult eyes and I thank God for each and every day that he blessed me to have her on this earth. Every achievement, victory and triumph both great and small, I smile knowing that in between rejoicing with the angels, she's looking down on me with pride. For all those blessed to still have their mommies in the flesh, say I love you every day – leave nothing unsaid and ask those questions you were too embarrassed to ask as a little girl. Take full advantage of the opportunity to learn about your mother from a different perspective – we don't stop learning simply because we become adults.