Let me just start with how truly blessed I am to have the parents I do. Where would I be without them today you ask?

Broke. Living in a box under a bridge. Cruel to other people. Not nearly as successful as I am right now and so many other things.

There are five really important things I think are essential for us to thank our parents for almost every day.

1. For dragging you absolutely everywhere

Where would I be if my mom didn't take nearly two hours out of every day and more on the weekends to drive me to my five different practices and long meets? Probably hating myself. Without her taking me I would have never learned the amazing things sports teaches us or have found my passion.

2. For reminding you just how special you are

I know that every time I am down in the dumps or feel like I am going nowhere in life, that I will always have my mom and dad to remind me that I have something going for me that no on else does. Yeah, I may hem and haw when they say it because they are my parents but every kid growing up (yes even in their twenties) should hear that once a week.

3. For making sure you don't live in a cardboard box

They put a roof over your head until you are able to do it for yourself. That in itself is one of the biggest blessings someone can have. Not everyone has the luxury of living in a warm home.

4. Giving us unconditional support

This is something you need to constantly thank them for. Without our parents having our backs no matter what the situation is, we would not find confidence in ourselves.

5. For the love in our lives no one else can truly replace

I strongly believe that no other person will love you quite like your parents do and that is something we have been gifted.

So with this, Thanks, mom and dad. I know that I wouldn't be the person I am today without you and I promise to say thank you more often.

As for everyone else reading this..go tell your parents thank you and that you love them.