For my mother, my best friend, and the person that will always have my back.

From the time I was little, you were the one person that was always there. No matter how much we bickered, you always loved me and never let me go to bed without knowing that. You always worked hard to give me everything I ever needed or wanted. You supported my passions and listened to all my secrets. You took me to church and helped me find Jesus. When it came time for boys, you listened as I gushed about the newest crush and held me as I cried after my many heartbreaks. Although it was dad’s job to take me to school on the first day, you usually took me every day after that. You watch me grow and pushed me to be the best person I could be. You made it clear that you would love me no matter what, but you always expected my best. You pushed me and nudged me at all the right times. You never let me give up on anything. You taught me I am stronger than I will ever know. For all of this, I am thankful.

Thank you for introducing me to my love for sports. Ever since I was little, you always made sure my summers and winters were full of sports. From YMCA soccer to dance and basketball, you were there through it all. Thank you for taking care of me whenever I get sick. Through doctors visits, medicine, and even vomit, you were always by my side to hold me and love me. Thank you for supporting my interests. Whether it was sitting in a courtroom for five hours while I did mock trial, or now holding my duck while I’m at college, you never fail to always support my love for things and take them on as your own. Thank you for the endless laughs. From your crazy dances through the house or your hilarious attempt to rap, you never cease to make me laugh. Thank you for showing me how to be strong and handle adversity with poise. You stood up to your oppressors and handled everything with dignity. You held your tongue in the hardest times. Most importantly, you showed me how a true lady should act. Thank you for always sticking up for me no matter what. Even if it means losing a friend or two, you always put me first and have my back in everything. Lastly, thank you for showing me Jesus. You were there to hold my hand as I was baptized, and never cease to show God-fearing humility.

Thanks for being you, mom. I wouldn’t change a minute of our time together for anything. You made me who I am today, and for that I will always be thankful.