When I started this list I thought I should do 25 things that Mom has taught me . But then I started going and I just couldn't stop. I'd be about to publish this and then I'd think of something else. This post is not only for my own mother but for all women who play important roles in raising children, from moms to grandmothers to aunts to friends to whoever. You are important and do make a difference. On behalf of strong-willed, some-how-turned-out-okay children everywhere; thank you! Here are 100 things that my mother taught me, either purposefully or by example. 1. Laugh 2. Share stories (except dreams. No one wants to hear what you dreamed last night unless it's exceptionally hilarious, which it probably isn't and you won't remember half of it anyway so you should keep it to yourself as a general rule) 3. Comb your hair 4. Be clean and smell good when you go out 5. Hugs make hurts feel better 6. The great outdoors is a wonderful place 7. Rea