I know being a single mom probably wasn’t your first choice, but you’re nothing short of being amazing at it. You played both the mom and dad role in my life and I couldn’t be more thankful for it. I know raising me was probably tough and there were times where you thought you couldn’t do it, or you just simply wanted to give up. But… you didn’t. I know that I don’t express enough how much I am thankful for you and how much I appreciate the struggles you took on to care for me.

It wasn’t always easy for me growing up, having just a mom. I’m sure it wasn’t easy for you either. There were things I had to miss out on, such as muffins for moms and doughnuts for dads. You had to be at work on time because it was how you made a living for us. You always made up for missing something little like that later on. You would make me my favorite things or play with me because you knew it made me happy. Your biggest concern was always making sure I was content and my life was fulfilled to its greatest potential.

When it came to anything important in my life you were always at my side. Getting my heart broken for the first time, you were there to pick up the pieces. When I thought I couldn’t make it anymore, you were there to remind me of how important I am to you and how much I have to offer to this world. When I was cheering throughout middle and high school you hardly ever missed a single game (Minus the one basketball game you broke your ankle walking into the school).

You came to almost every away game that we ever had, and every home game... well you were always there. When I graduated from high school, I remember looking at you before I was about to walk across the stage and there you were, smiling and cheering me on. You have always been and always will be my biggest supporter in everything that I do.

You have and will always be a major role model in my life. You are a strong independent woman and everything that I strive to be. You have taught me that it’s okay to be independent. You have taught me so many important skills from being a single mom. You have always pushed me to do my greatest and were always proud of me. You constantly went the extra mile to make sure I got what I needed and a little extra. You were always selfless and always made sure that I came first. And for that I thank you.

I hope that one day I have the love for my daughter that reflects the love you have for me. No matter the circumstance you were placed in, you always cared for me more than anyone. There is a special bond between us that can never be broken. You are my best friend in the entire world and I thank you for everything that you have done for me.

I love you to the moon and back