Best Howard County Mom Contest Winner: Patricia Nichols

Congratulations, Patricia Nichols.

You have been chosen by your family as the “Best Mom of Howard County.”

And a result of a random drawing, your family will get a $50 gift certificate to spend on you.

Here’s what Tara Ferry, who uploaded Nichols’ picture to our photo gallery, had to say:

“This is a picture of a woman who is smart, loyal, selfless, funny and beautiful. Patricia Nichols has worked hard her entire life and always put her family first. She is an inspiration to all of us and truly represents what it really means to be a Mom. We love her!”

Mothers were praised by their family for a myriad of reasons in our photo gallery.

One mother raises four boys while going to college full time. Another supported her son in a drag show even though she is a “traditional conservative,” wrote another user.

Former Howard County Police spokeswoman Elizabeth Schroen wrote a tribute to her mother, who is now struggling with a degenerative memory disorder.

"She always taught us that most important in life is people–not things," said Schroen.

How has your mother touched your life? Tell us in comments.