"A Giving, Loving, Talented and Amazing Person"

When asked, Elin Bender wrote that her mom is a pretty talented and amazing person. Here's what else she said:

"My father died when I was very young, and she sacrificed herself and her time to be there for me for every aspect of my life. I owe her all the good qualities that I have. I was in many sports, and she never missed a game. I am now a mother myself, and she has been there for my children as much as she was for me."

Bender's entry won for a pair of tickets to . And, in the spirit of Mother's Day, here are what some other Yorkville Patch commenters had to say about their moms:

Jen Slepicka: My mom lets me be me. And encourages my growth. She's my biggest cheerleader. She is also the epitome of who I wish to be. Every night, I pray to give thanks for the things I have. Top of that list is My Mom.

Antoinette: My mom is my hero, she is strong enough to admit faults but is humble when shes perfect. She is everything I need her to be. She thought me to be confident in who I am by loving me for everything I am. She believes in everything I do and always cheers me on. My mom is special because she isn't perfect nor does she try to be, she just tries to be whatever I need her to be. I love my mom :)

Jolene DeGeeter: My mom is a wonderful mother. She has been working two jobs for a few years now just to make ends meet. My dad became disabled and could no longer be the bread winner she had to do everything she could to make sure the bills were paid. My sister was a teen mom and my mother has been there to help see that my sister has meet her goals in school and college. My mother has three grandchilden two of which are mine and she devotes all her extra time to her grandchildren. She is my world and I have looked up to her and will always.

Yorkvillian: My mom has always been there to support me in everything I do and to offer advice when I ask. She taught me that homemade could be just as beautiful as store bought as she made prom dresses, wedding dresses and other things when I asked. She taught me that the clearance rack is my friend and that paying half price feels way better than paying full price. She is everything that I hope to become to my kids.