My Loving Mother,
As I went off to college I didn’t really realize or take into consideration how drastically my life would change and all the new things that I would have to adapt to. Nobody was there to tell me to pick up my room, to do my laundry, to take the trash out for me, to make sure that food wasn’t spoiling in my mini-fridge, but most importantly nobody was there to give me a hug at the end of every day. The transition to college and being away from home was not an easy one and I truly would not have been able to get through all the rough times if I didn’t have you to run to.
Since I’ve come to college, I have learned many things—some useful and some not so useful. But one of the most important things that I have learned is that a bond between a mother and daughter is precious. You are my best friend, Mom. You’re the person I come crawling to when I’ve been beaten up emotionally and you take me as I am and build me back up again. You’re the person I want to talk to when I’m having a bad day or when something exciting happens. You’re my rock. You're my person. You were all of these things before I came to college, but being on my own for a few months has really made me realize just how much I cherish our relationship.
I know I don’t say this often enough, but I miss you when I’m at school. I miss the little things: the smiles, the hugs, and the home-cooked meals. You have done a wonderful job raising me, Mom (I think I've turned out pretty awesome). You always told me that there was no “parenting handbook” and that you had no idea what you were doing half the time, but you did a great job if I say so myself. I'm positive that raising me wasn't a walk in the park, but I am here to say thank you, mom, for sticking by my side throughout everything--even though you didn't really have a choice.
Thank you for all the sleepless nights that you spent beside my crib when I was a restless baby. Thank you for all the times you held my hand and taught me to hold my head high. Thank you for making my lunches for all twelve years of school (boy do I miss those now). Thank you for holding me as I cried over my first heartbreak. But, most importantly, thank you for being you. I wouldn't be here today if it wasn't for you. So, for all these things, and many more than I've forgotten to mention, thank you. I love you endlessly.
Love Always,
Your Little Girl