My mom has taught me so much, and I'm sure she has many more lessons in the years to come.  It's funny how I never appreciated it until my late 20s.  That is around the time when you start seeing your parents as real humans beings, not just the people that clean up after you or pay your bills (probably because they don't clean after you or pay your bills anymore).  My parents are pretty cute actually.  High school sweethearts from El Salvador, adorable abuelos to my kid, and 100% family-oriented.  Everything they did and still do is for their loved-ones.   

Today, for Mother's Day, I would like the highlight the wonderful advice my mom has given me. 

Never settle: Sometimes I get lazy, but when I do, I feel totally guilty about it.  Strive for what you want, and try, try again.  When I feel like I can't figure it out, she's there to help in any way she can.
Push your creativity: She's so much talented than me.  You should see how she decorates her classrooms!  Sometimes I bounce ideas off her, just to see how she'll make them better.
Be A Positive Influence: My mom is a natural leader.  She has always been a strong matriarch, but she could easily take charge of the conversation at any dinner party.  She loves to laugh, and I love when she does.  It's loud and happy and contagious!
Don't Be Dumb:  I know this sounds silly, but she definitely teaches this almost daily.  If I ever get overly excited about an opportunity, she would bring me back to earth.  Yes, it great to be hopeful, but keep it real.  Take the time to really think about decisions, especially big, life-changing ones.  She would never make the choice for me, but her guidance is always there. 
Love Yourself: This is something that every parent should teach their kid.  The only way you can love anyone else is appreciating who you are first.  Knowing who you are will help you understand when others appreciate you too.

Happy Mother's Day, Mami!  Thank you for everything - I love you tons! 
Hopefully, you still read my blog and actually saw this post.