As I have grown up I have put my parents through the wringer, there have been many times that I tested their patience, pushed them to their limits and probably made them question how its possible to put up with me, but in the end, their love is unwavering.

Because I grew up in this environment I got used to them always loving me, even now, I find myself taking them for granted occasionally, after all these years having their support, their unconditional love and of course their ability to keep me on track, I owe them a huge thank you.

So, mom and dad, this one is for you.

First I want to thank you for supporting me, from dance, to ride, to school you guys never questioned me.

Thank you for all the times you took me to the dance studio and picked me up hours later when you would have much rather been in bed. Thank you for finding a way to get me a horse when I randomly decided ten years ago that it was something I wanted to do.

It's because of you that I have learned to have passions and determination.

Next, I want to thank you for always encouraging me to be the best me there is. I know you say I see the world in "full color" but I think that may just be a nice way of saying I'm a bit of an organized mess.

But you never tried to change this, you embraced me for who I was and encouraged me to be the most colorful in the room. Thanks to you guys I am not afraid to stand out from the crowd, to be bold and confident and most importantly, love myself for who I am.

Because of you guys I have learned to be kind. Growing up with you as my parents taught me that the only and best way to treat people is kindly.

I know when I was younger I would roll my eyes at you when you would repeatedly say "always choose kindness" but now I take it to heart. Thanks to you guys I am able to see the good in people, in the world and in myself.

Most importantly though I thank you guys for teaching me to never give up.

I have watched you both go through times in your life where things were hard, and quitting could have been an option but you persevered, it is these actions and decisions you make the inspire me to push through even the hardest times.

Knowing that you guys are there to catch me if I fall or support me when things get tough inspires me to take risks every day.

Thank you for being the most amazing parents in the world, I am so grateful for you both and everything you have done for me. Without you guys, I would not be half the person I am today.