AUTHOR'S NOTES: Just a little nod to the most important people on the planet: Our Mothers.

An Ode To Mothers

Because no one else can tuck you in just right.

Because it's hard to bake with Dad without the fire department being involved.

Because someone has to resist their kid's puppy-dog look.

Because a head-smack is just Mom's way of saying "Don't do that."

Because while Dads give their daughters away when they get married, Moms hold on forever.

Because someone has to make you earn your allowance.

Because only Moms can really tell their sons what women want.

Because Moms understand the importance of new clothes on the first day of a new school year.

Flowers fade and chocolate melts, but a hand-trace that says 'I love you, Mommy' lasts forever.

Mom doesn't care what you get her… as long as you give her a gift with love. (But money doesn't hurt.)

Moms don't tell you what to do. They make suggestions and if you value your life, you follow them.

It's true: If mama's not happy, NO ONE will be happy.

"When your mother asks, 'Do you want a piece of advice?' it is a mere formality. It doesn't matter if you answer yes or no. You're going to get it anyway."

— Erma Bombeck

There is very little that Moms won't forgive you for. And when you mess up there's very little Moms won't make you pay for.

Here's to all the mothers out there. For without you, none of us would be around.