Dear Mom,

As my first-year of college nears an end, I reflect on all of the amazing memories thus far. Although you haven’t been in Alabama with me all this time, in a way you have. Whether it’s a text, a call, a mention on Facebook or Instagram, a Snapchat (or four...), you have been with me through it all!

Now that I am older, I look back and realize that everything I am is because of you. You’ve made me realize it's OK to be sad and cry, it's OK to be angry at the world, it's OK to want to give up.

Your message in the end: "Everything will be OK, take it one day at a time."

These couple of words have gotten me through challenging times when I was sad, angry at the world, or when I wanted to give up. You eased my fears and taught me that everything happens for a reason. You’ve shown me that a mother will do anything and give everything for the sake of her children.

You cheer me up when I need it the most, you support me and my decisions no matter what, and you help me to become the best version of myself. Thank you for always being my biggest cheerleader; whether it was on the court, in the classroom or from 800 miles away. Because I don’t see you as often, I cherish every little moment I can when I do see you. I am so beyond blessed to call you my mom.

You have done so much for me and I have no doubt you will do a trillion more.

I am so grateful for you, mom.

Love,

Hoop