My parents are celebrating yet another anniversary, and I am sitting here miles away thinking about how much they deserve. If I could buy them an island, I would. Their unselfish love and guidance that they provided has made me who I am, and I am unbelievably thankful for who they are.

My mom was hand crafted by God to be the best listener in the world. It does not matter what anyone is going through, she is always there to listen and give advice. There were so many times growing up where I shut the world out because I felt defeated. She could look at me for two seconds and automatically know that I needed a hug. I would run up to my room and cry, and she would be right after me with outstretched arms. I am so thankful for such a godly woman with such a big heart. Some of my most favorite memories from growing up were watching Lifetime movies with my mom, and constantly trying to be like her. I still look to her as I am becoming a woman of God and aspire to be more like her every single day. I am so blessed to not only call her my mother, but my best friend as well. She has taught me kindness, forgiveness, and honesty.

God gave me the best father in the world. He shows me who Jesus is every single time I talk to him. I see God in him, which definitely inspires my walk of faith everyday. There is something about his warm hugs and laugh that make me remember how good life is. I would talk his ear off for hours as a teenager, and he would be so patient with me. We share the same sense of humor and have always bonded with many of the same interests. He has taught me so much about life, God, and who I need to be. My dream is to one day marry a man who is like my dad. Our close relationship has been something that I have treasured deeply and I know for a fact that I would not have a big heart if it wasn't for his guidance and example.

The both of them have shown me who to be in a fallen world. I hope to be even half of who they are as a future spouse and parent and I pray that God protects them every single day. As they have been empty nesters, they have been overwhelmed with a fair share of struggles, but joy tops it every time. When I visit them, they seem more in love and blessed every single time. It is amazing to see how they overcome what they do with their eyes completely focused on God.

My parents have given my siblings and me the best life we could have imagined. I think about how thankful I am for our close relationship all the time. I am so fortunate that I was able to grow up with two amazing parents. I will never take for granted the amazing gift from God when He equipped these two wonderful people to become the best team in the world.

I love you, mom and dad. Thank you for being the two best friends who never leave no matter how crazy life gets. Thank you for being my two biggest inspirations and role models. Here's to 28 more years!