Growing up, I took my mom's presence for granted, and now that I am away for college I regret every second I did not express my unconditional love for her. I am grateful for what we have built over the years.

1. Thank you for always being there for me.

I cannot recall any important events in my life where you were not there with me. I knew I could count on your being there no matter what, and I am grateful for that. Your presence was your way of showing me that you supported me, maybe you did not say it out loud but I understand now.

2. Thank you for the [sometimes unwanted] advice

Whether it was on a sketchy friendship or just general advice I now understand why you told me the things you told me. Thank you for listening to my problems even now that I am not physically there with you.

3. Thank you for letting my try out every single possible sport.

I think this is one of the things I might be most grateful about. You encouraged me to get out of my comfort zone and try out new things with new people. If it were not for you I would not have been able to discover the sport I enjoy the most. If it were not for you encouraging me to try out new things I would not have been able to have such a big circle of friends.

4. Thank you for letting me fly on my own.

I know it has been hard for the both of us to not be together, specially because it has always been the two of us against the world, but I thank you for letting me follow my dreams. I thank you for encouraging me to go out there and take the world by surprise. I am thankful because you are letting me become who I am and taking a step back with helping me. I know some things would have been faster if you would have helped me a little but now I understand why you took a step back and let me become independent.

Thank you is never enough to express my gratitude towards you. You have always been my role model and will continue to be. I am incredibly proud of you for everything you have accomplished and will accomplish in the future. I know I do not say "I love you" or "I miss you" enough but trust me I do. Every single day. I look forward to your "Good morning" text or a phone call. You mean the world to me. I cannot imagine a day without you.

Sincerely,

Your daughter