Mama,

As the years fly by, the one consistent thing in my life has been your love. I've made big decisions for my future and no matter which path I may take, I know I will always have you standing at the clearing arms wide open. You're the strongest woman I know, because you've prevailed through experiences and circumstances some of us would struggle to undertake. In each situation, you handle it with courage and selflessness, which has been extremely admirable for me, as a daughter, to watch and follow.

I do really need to thank you, Mom. All of the little things that may seem insignificant to some, had an immense impact on my upbringing and my heart. The car rides to school, reading countless books over and over again to the point where you knew each page by heart, coming to all my performances and being the proudest parent in the room. Thank you for understanding me better than anyone else, and being there to listen or cuddle me when I couldn't even recognize what was the matter. Even now, at college, I've called you numerous times, sitting on the phone for an hour, and you've listened patiently about my rough day. These are only a few things mentioned that I appreciate, but you've done so much more for me that I am beyond grateful for.

I'm blessed to have you as a mother, you've constantly protected me, and I am proud to have a Mama-bear looking out for my safety. I know if I ever needed anyone to go on a goose-chase, you'd be my first volunteer. One of the things I love most about you is that you've never failed to make me feel loved, even during my worst moments, you've loved me unconditionally. You believed in me even when I didn't believe in myself. You taught me to stay positive and find the good in myself, reminding me to put my entire heart and soul into everything I set my mind to.

The lessons I've learned from you will be a part of me forever. The compliments I've gotten throughout my life about being well-mannered and put-together are dedicated to you, because without your guidance, I wouldn't be the person I am today.

I love our Bravo marathons, Cheez-Its obsession, and TJMaxx runs.

I love how even if we only talk once a week, we feel just as close as we did when I was home.

I love our spontaneous family dance parties and the numerous trips we've been fortunate to go on.

I thank you for being my inspiration to laugh as much as I can, hold my head high, and to always remember that a phone call and virtual FaceTime hug is only a dial away.

Happy Mother's Day.