Mom and Dad,

As the rest of my life approaches, there are some things I need you to know. Although I will never be able to truly express how much love and appreciation I have for the two of you, I will try my best here..

1. I'm sorry for all of the times I have been (and will be) incredibly frustrating and hard to deal with.

I know that raising me has not always been easy. From my short temper and my sassy mouth, to my sometimes lazy attitude, I can only imagine just how frustrating I can be to you two sometimes.

2. You two are the most important people in my life.

I know that as I've grown up, I've made new friends who have become family, and because of that, gained new families to add into my heart. Although this is true, I hope the two of you never forget that the two of you are my best friends. I could not do life without the two of you.

3. Thank you for your unconditional love and support.

I am so thankful to say that no matter what it is that I go through in this life, I know that you two will ALWAYS be standing in my corner. Even when I'm so scared to disappoint you or anger you, you both always end up showing me that you'll love me no matter what. Neither of you have EVER given up on me, and that on its own makes me so grateful.

4. No matter where I go and who I become, I will always call YOU home.

As my 18th birthday, high school graduation, and the start of the rest of my life comes near, I know that it's scaring you guys (even if you don't want to admit it.) However, I hope you two know that I will never go too far.

5. The two of you are truly my heroes.

As a family we have been through so much over the years, and we've all dealt with so much. Throughout all of it I watched the two of you stay so strong despite of the pain, just for us. You've both always put yourselves second for me and the rest of our family. I know none of us tell you enough, but I am so unbelievably grateful for EVERYTHING.

Like I said, I will never fully be able to express everything to you two, but I really hope that you know I love you beyond words and I would not and could not be who I am today without you. Thank you for raising me so well and for showing me so much love, compassion, and joy. Never forget how much I appreciate you.