Ali Elizabeth

“From Eye Rolls to Best Friends”

Have you ever looked back on your younger years and thought, “Wow, my mom really was right about a lot of things”? Of course you have. Most of us probably have. And if your mom is reading this right now, I’m sure she’s smiling just a little too proudly. I know mine is!

First off, I hope everyone had a wonderful Mother’s Day. Whether your day was filled with big family gatherings, cookouts, phone calls, or simply quiet moments together, I hope it reminded you just how special mothers truly are. I was incredibly grateful to spend the day with my own mom, and the older I get, the more thankful I become for that time.

You know, I don’t think I fully understood the importance of a mother-daughter relationship until I got older. When I was younger, especially during those teenage years, I’m sure I wasn’t always the easiest daughter to deal with. Actually, let’s be honest, I know I wasn’t. I had my fair share of attitude, eye rolls, and “you just don’t understand” moments. If you’re reading this as a former teenage daughter, you can probably relate.

Back then, moms somehow had the magical ability to embarrass us just by breathing in public. They asked too many questions, worried too much, and somehow always knew when something was wrong even when we insisted nothing was. At the time, it felt annoying. Looking back now, it feels like love.

What I didn’t realize then was that my mom was never trying to make my life harder. She was trying to make my life better. She has always wanted the best for me, even in moments when I didn’t understand it. Even when I pushed back. Even when I thought I knew everything.

Now, years later, she truly is one of my very best friends. I love traveling with her. Last year we took our first mother daughter trip together, and it truly was the best just spending the days on the beach together. I talk to her on the phone almost every day, and somehow even a five-minute conversation can make a stressful day feel lighter.

There’s something comforting about knowing there’s someone in your corner no matter what season of life you’re walking through. Someone who celebrates your victories like they’re their own and hurts when you hurt. Mothers carry that kind of love so naturally, we sometimes forget just how extraordinary it really is.

As I’ve gotten older, I’ve realized the relationship between a mother and daughter changes beautifully over time. At first, she’s the one holding your hand while you learn how to walk. Then one day, without even realizing it, she becomes the person you call for advice, comfort, encouragement, recipes, travel plans, and honestly everything else too.

So this week, I’m simply feeling thankful. Thankful for my mom. Thankful for her patience through all my stubborn years. Thankful for her prayers, her support, her wisdom, and her friendship.

And if you’re lucky enough to still have your mom here, give her a call. Spend the extra time. Ask the questions. Take the trip. Sit at the kitchen table a little longer. One day you’ll realize those ordinary moments were actually the important ones all along.