Dear Mom and Dad,
Over the past 20 years of my existence I hope I have told you both how important you are to me and how much I appreciate you, but even that’s not enough. Through the years you have guided me, parented me and were two of my best friends. You taught me right from wrong, to be my own person, but most of all you taught me how to love. You constantly put up with my moodiness and my bad decisions. I apologize for all the stress and headaches I have caused you, yet, I thank you for your never ending love and reverse psychology.
First off, I want to thank you for a great childhood. The family foundation you have built allowed me to experience a memorable childhood that I will never forget. Mom, thank you for sewing my first teddy bear with me and helping me convince dad we needed a dog. Dad, thank you for always sneaking me cookie dough behind the refrigerator and always making me laugh even when I was in trouble. Mom and Dad thank you for yelling at me and telling me no. Thank you for making me go to Sunday school even though I hated getting up early. And thank you for making me go to field hockey even though I was tired after school. Without you doing that, I would have never learned to work with others or be disciplined. I was the type of child to always test the both of you until you reached your limits. I also tend to be a bit dramatic from time to time...but I thank you for always having the patience to talk to me and make me realize it’s not that serious. I apologize for testing you and giving you gray hairs, but thank you for everything you have taught me. You have always reminded me that life goes on and that it will always be okay.
Mom, thank you for being my sidekick and always wanting to explore. You and dad gave me the opportunity to travel the world and experience other cultures. You have truly taught me how to be thankful for everything I have. Thank you for letting me cuddle in your bed when I can’t sleep and when I need some love. Dad, thank you for always watching old school movies with me and letting me jump on you even though you'd rather be sleeping. Through the laughs, smiles, tears and heartbreaks, both of you have always been there to reassure me. Mom and Dad, I thank you for putting me before yourself. Dad, you always ask me if “I’m happy.” Yes, I am happy, but the truth is I’m truly happy because I have you and mom as my parents.
Mom and Dad, you taught me to follow my heart and my dreams. Through dance, acting, modeling, horseback riding, and singing lessons it didn’t matter what activity I temporarily participated in, you always encouraged me to do what I love. Thanks to you I had the courage to move to New York City by myself to take the steps to fulfill my dreams. Without you, I would not be able to afford the school of my dreams. Although I miss the both of you every day, you two are my motivation and remind me of where I want to go in life. So thank you mom and dad for helping me grow into the person I am today, supporting and loving me. I realize that I am soon going to be an actual adult, but despite where life takes me I will always be your princess. I know I am prepared because of what you both taught me. I love you both with all of my heart.
Love always your little girl,
Rachel
