Dear Mama,

You know how blessed I am to have a mother and best friend rolled up into one? To have someone who genuinely wants the best for me, without anything in return. I wanted to write this because even in college, I need you to know a few things.

I am still your baby, just a little grown up now. I know it was hard, having me leave the nest to start my own adventure, but I never left your heart.

I know you look at me and see the spunky little girl you raised. The times we spent playing dress up, spy, or anything I could ever imagine. You look back to your little girl with pigtails and sparkly clothes, just yearning to have those years again. I understand.

But like your little caterpillar, I transformed into a beautiful butterfly.

That little girl is now an outgoing, smart, college student that you helped raise into a respectable young lady. You guided me through 18 years of my life. Showing me the high road even when I didn’t want to take it. Expressing the power my voice held in a crowd of many. You gave me the confidence to be whatever I aspired to be in this world.

You showed me all the good in the times filled with bad.

I know now that I'm older, just how alike we are. Both strong, stubborn, directionally challenged women. Our minds always wandering around a thousand miles a minute. It causes arguments sometimes, but they’re always resolved that same night. I'm glad too because I couldn’t imagine a world now without our daily phone calls, our jokes, or our love.

You made me the wonderful person I am today and I'm blessed.

This is the hard part. You have held my hand, walking with me through this world. Your direction and guidance always with me throughout my life. Now it’s time to walk beside me and let go. Trust me, its hard for the both of us. It’s time that I start figuring out who I am, and the mistakes I will make. I know you want to protect me from the fall, but sometimes it’s okay to stumble. A learning lesson for myself.

But, just because you have to let go, doesn’t mean I don’t need you by my side.

I will always need my mama and best friend. Never think otherwise. Even if my voice or actions seem to push you away, I never mean it. I hope you know how much I love you. How I notice the superwoman inside of you. I aspire to be half the mom you are one day. Conquering the world and raising my children to do the same.

So thank you, mom. For the life you gave me, the memories that fulfill me, and the passion you instilled in me. For your endless supply of love that will never end, I am truly blessed.

Love,

Your bug bug