1. They’ve given me a home and a place to feel safe.

When I’m having the worst day I can count on the fact that a short drive home is a solid fix. They are more than happy to have me and are always there to offer support or advice whenever I need it.

2. They’ve sacrificed so much for me.

I will never be able to repay my parents for how much they’ve done for me. At the end of the day, no matter the circumstance, I was continuously their number one priority. I’ll always be thankful for all their hard work that helped get me to where I am today.

3. They taught me how to be responsible.

I couldn’t have asked for two better role models growing up. I was consistently taught to have good manners, to value a dollar, and always treat others the way I wanted to be treated.

4. They play the role as both authority figures and my best friends.

Even on the days where I was in trouble or in the middle of a punishment, I knew at the end of the day that my parents would be there for me for the good times or the bad. My mother is perpetually there to listen to my rants or gossip with me, and my dad is always there to goof around with.

5. I always look forward to a visit from them.

Because I know they would be happy to take me on a much-needed trip to the grocery store (and maybe the mall if dads being generous…). It’s also a nice time to be able to get off campus to have a nice dinner and spend quality time with each other.

6. Being distanced from them has helped bring us closer.

I’ll be honest, the thought of being away from my parents while I was away at college was scary in the beginning. But the distance has made our relationships so much stronger. Through my independence, I have matured and connected with them on a deeper level. I began to understand what they’ve been through and how to relate to them.

7. For never judging me.

I know that I’ll always be accepted by them no matter what. In life, there can be some harsh criticism that’s hard to handle but I know they’ll continually trust my judgment and decisions and always offer me honest feedback.

8. They’ll always be my number one fans.

I’ve been let down by many people throughout my life, but my parents have never been one of them. They are the first people I call when I have good news, and also when I need to vent about something when I’m upset. And even if I fail, they’re always there to cheer me on.

I love you, mom and dad!