Dear Mom,

Today is that day of the year; a bittersweet moment. Yes, I am so excited and yes, I am so sad. I am sorry this summer has been tough for you. It is a weird time in my life: a constant struggle between having ultimate freedom and having none. I know you are scared for your little girl, but remember all of those lessons you have taught me and words engraved in my mind. Do not be scared for your “chunky monkey.” I am stronger than you could have imagined, and that is mostly because of you. Every moment I stop and question the consequences of an action, every moment I smile at a stranger, and every moment I give someone unconditional love, a little piece of you shines through me. “I don’t look like my mom because of my curly brown hair” does not compare to our matching wide eyes, plump lips and giving soul. I am a little part of you and I carry that with me every day.

Please don’t wake up in the middle of the night, wondering if I am safe in my bed. Be confident that you raised me to know when it is time to go home. Life is so exciting for me right now, and so stressful. School is my main priority and you know I get nervous before the start of another school year. Do not take this as a reflection of you. I love you with all of my heart, even if you do not think I show it. I sometimes just get lost in my mind. I think that is the writer in me. It is almost like there is a movie reel constantly playing in my mind. I am not as talkative as I used to be, but I am just trying to sort out all of the movies. One day, when they are organized and I am happy, things will go back to how they used to be. I wrote this letter because I wrote one this time last year when I left for freshman year. It's also because I feel like things between us ended in a weird way. You are the BEST mom and I don’t think you understand how much I appreciate you and all you do. Please trust and believe in me this year. I know what I am doing; all I need is your support. I cannot wait to see you next.

Love you forever,

Your Youngest Daughter