Parents. The very people who drive you crazy most of the time, but without them, we simply wouldn't exist. All teasing aside, I can firmly say I was truly blessed in the Parental Department so my first article is dedicated to them. As a new member to the Odyssey team, I would love to share a little information about who I am. But first, to truly know me, you must take a look at those who have shaped the woman I have become today. Family is everything, and we must never go a day without thanking them for all they have done for us.

Thank you for pushing me...

Growing up is hard enough. The school years were tough in so many ways, but when I wanted to complain and give up, you pushed me to be stronger and persevere. When I wanted to be lazy and not go work, you pushed me to remember my commitments and taught me how to be responsible. You never let me take the easy way out of things. As a college student, this has come in handy so many times. I have learned to work even harder for the things I want. Your pushing has made me a stronger woman and appreciate my victories even more.

Thank you for picking me up every time I fell...

Many times we face different hardships, whether it was the bullies or tragedies out of our control, your arms were always there to catch me when I fell. Scraped knees were cleaned and kissed as a child, but as a young adult, you were there to hold me as I lost a friend too soon. Sometimes, all I needed was a helping hand, and you were always there to help me heal. You were there for me when my anxiety of freshman year was crippling and encouraged me to stay hopeful and work hard. When at last, I had gotten the hang of things, you were there to help me stay on track and let me know I was always loved.

Thank you for being my number one fans...

No matter how often my sporting needs took you on hour long road trips and weekend long tournaments, your faces were always the first ones I saw cheering me on from the stands. Your support, coaching, and faith made me the best player I could be. You always pushed me to practice hard and never quit no matter what I was doing. You showed up to every ceremony, banquet, and everything under the sun. You never gave up on me, and in return I learned to never give up on myself. When I had a bad game, we talked it over and learned from it. I thank God you were never the parents to scream at me when I didn't pitch a no-hitter every time I went to the mound. Your love and support made me a better person on and off the field.

Thank you for showing me what true love really looks like...

At 18-years-old, I am at the time in my life where true love is real and happening. I have always looked to you as the example of the love I wish to have when I'm your age. You have taught me that I deserve a man who will respect me, cherish me, and make me laugh. You have also taught me that to earn that love, you must show it in return. The movies show us the rainbows and butterflies version of true love, but at home I see the real thing. Holding hands in the car, flowers just because, and picking on each other: that is what's real. Thank you for showing me that it's possible. Lastly, your love has extended to me and each of my sisters (there's three other crazy ones too) and we have always known that your love is unconditional, even when we forget to do the dishes. Thank you for all you do for me. I love you always.