Dear Mom,

This is my 48th year to wish you a Happy Mother’s Day. (I never thought I’d be the age you were when I thought you were “older.”) HA! I’m positive it comes as no surprise to you how grateful I am.

You have been such a great role model, a strong member of your community, a good sister, always kind to women and always making others feel welcome or noticed. You didn’t think I watched you all the time, but I sure did.

You! … with your fabulous hoop earrings and headscarf in the ’70s and your frosty lipsticks!

You! … with the parachute jumpsuit and permed hair in the ’80s!

You! … with your black stirrup pants and long tees in the ’90s. Me, always wanting to emulate you. I still do.

YOU … reminding me, “if you feel pretty you will BE pretty.”

“Be yourself … everyone else is taken.”

“If you get scared, just pray.”

You were always there. In my business when needed, out of it when NOT … and somehow knowing the difference.

Thank you from my heart, for being you, for being my mom. God sure knew what he was doing!

Kristin Chenoweth is a Tony award-winning singer and actress.

This is part of a special series, “Thank You, Mom,” highlighting letters of gratitude from celebrities and notable writers leading up to Mother’s Day. To view the full collection, which will be added to throughout the month of May, go here.