This month’s very cool person is the most special one yet. What makes Linda Going worthy of such an accolade, you might ask. Well, she’s my mom, of course! And this month marks her 29th birthday (again).

Now that I am a mother, I have a whole new perspective on what exactly moms do. It’s not that I didn’t understand that she sacrificed for me. I’ve always appreciated the things she’s taught me, the kindness and love she has brought to my life, the generosity of spirit and the sense of fun she brings to our family. But now I understand it on a micro level… The potent mix of love and fear you open yourself up to as a parent. The hard decisions. The late night rocking sessions. The gifts, both large and small, that you impart to your child every day whether they know it or not. I am so fortunate to have a great mother. It’s her example I will follow as I raise my son.

Thanks, Mom… Happy Birthday!