Mother: something or someone that gives rise to or exercises protecting care over something else. A mother is someone who is constant. She is the person who understands, well, everything. She is indescribably loving and deserves to be appreciated. So, Mom, here it goes.

1. I See Everything That You Do

Every single lunch that you packed remembering who liked crusts and who didn't, every runny nose that you stopped dead in its tracks, every tear that you wiped away--I remember it all, and I'm sorry that I didn't say thank you enough. Lord knows you more than deserved it.

2. You Were Literally Always Right

Always. It really is a wonder how I'm just now realizing this at nineteen, but wow do you have a talent for knowing just how things will turn out. Every 'it's going to be okay' moment, was. Every 'she's not your caliber' friend, wasn't. Everything was true-- kind of just like you.

3. The Strength You Show Is Incomparable

Seriously, it's a wonder. A lot of our lives have been spent fighting. Whether it was our own minds trying to hold us down, the illness of a loved one, or some other outside force, you never faltered. Your tears were like the voices against you leaving your head because you never allowed them to stop you.

4. It's Okay To Say No

If you have any character flaws, this would be the one. You are not only there for your own children, but also "everybody and their brother," as you would say. You are the friend with the casserole in hand after someone has surgery despite the fact that you have had two doctor's appointments, a soccer game, and an eight hour workday yourself to attend. If anyone can afford to say "no," it's you. Try it sometime.

5. It Is More Than Okay To Think About Yourself Sometimes

You have done incredible things in your life. Not only as a mom, but as your own person. I know you are more proud of that title than anything and love that it's your identifier, but please don't forget about you. You deserve the world and since you've already given it to me I know you are capable of giving it to yourself.

Thank you for absolutely everything, Mom. I love you more than you'll ever know.