When I lived at home, my mom and I were close. We had our fair share of fights—like most mothers and daughters do — but we still stayed pretty tight. Once I went to college, however, I relied on my relationship with my mom more than I thought I would. I also realized that, once I moved away from home, my relationship with my mom improved.

Before college, I appreciated my mom so much — but since I moved to college, I appreciate her even more.

1. She answers all of my phone calls (typically more than two in a day).
2. She quickly replies to all of my texting rants — even if they are irrational.
3. She always makes my favorite meals when I come home for a visit.
4. If I am home for a day, weekend, or even for a long break, she’s always up to spend the night hanging out with me — whether that be watching a movie or going out to lunch.
5. Just a phone call and telling me what medicines I need when I’m sick isn’t enough — when you get to college, you realize you just really need your mom when you get sick.
6. When I run out of money (which can happen easily in college) she makes sure to send some my way.
7. Sometimes she’ll drive all the way to my school just to grab a quick breakfast with me.
8. And when she does come visit, sometimes she brings some surprise clothes she found while she was shopping the other day just because she “thought they’d be really cute on me.”
9. She lets me vent about anyone and anything — and I never have to worry about her telling anyone.
10. If I’ve had a bad day, just talking to my mom can make me feel 10 times better.

She does so much more than that. Mostly, she’s just the most awesome best friend a girl could possibly ask for. She loves unconditionally, gives unselfishly, and is always there to make me laugh — even when I’m away at school.

Thanks for all that you do, Mom! I love you!