We’ve known each other for many years. You’ve watched me grow up, through the good and the bad times. You helped raise me. Over the years your son and I have basically switched families because of the amount of love we have developed for the others' family. I was raised by a wonderful family who has accepted you all as part of our own. They taught me how to behave, be polite, and always use manners. However, over the years it has become apparent to me there is one thing I have never and can never say enough-- thank you.

Thank you for accepting me as one of your own. I know it couldn’t be easy watching me come into his life and switch things up. He’s your baby and I would never do anything to try and take him away from you. I know for a while you probably didn’t think I was good enough and that is okay, I would expect nothing less. As parents, you only ever want what is best for your child.

Thank you for always giving me your opinions even if they weren’t asked of you. From what dress to wear to prom, what college to go to, down to what wedding dress he would like the best (when that day comes). You’ve always spoken your mind and I’ve never had to question whether you were telling me what I wanted to hear or if you really meant it. That will forever mean more to me than you could ever know.

Thank you for sharing him, especially around the holidays. I know it’s not easy having someone else come into your lives and demand his time and affection. Please know he means more to me than words can even express. I know that it may seem like I’m trying to take him away, but I would never even dream about it. You have accepted me into your family and I am so grateful for that, and my family has done the same to him. They look at him as a son, brother, and grandson.

Thank you for all the support you have given him and myself. You gave up your lives when you decided to have him and I am so glad you did. I know the countless hours of sitting at practices and games in the cold, rain, snow, and blistering heat meant the world to him and so it means more to me than you can even imagine.

But, the most important thing I could ever thank you for is raising the man of my dreams. He is caring, thoughtful, loving, honest, dependable, kind, intelligent, has integrity, and a wonderful sense of humor. You should be very proud. I truly could not have asked for a better man in my life. He is my prince charming.

I want to make a promise to you. I may be his girlfriend, fiancé, or wife, but nothing I say or do will ever be said or done to take your place.