Dear Mom,

This transition is definitely going to be the hardest venture of my life. It's going to be strange not having you there to help me move in, while all of the other student around me have their mothers. Though you won't be there in person, I know that you'll be there with me every step of the way, and for that, I just want to thank you for that and a few other things.

Thank you for being one of my biggest supporters. Even when you were sick as a dog, you always made it to my events, especially when the doctors told you that you shouldn't. You attended every band concert, chorus concert, and performance I was in, no matter if you didn't enjoy what I was doing. It only mattered if I was enjoying myself, and I know you'll be there to support me while I'm gone. I felt your spirit during every performance since you've left, so it's not going anywhere.

Thank you for being a friend when I needed one, but a mom when I didn't. You gave me the advice I needed that could've come from a best friend, but the stern reprimanding that only a mother could give. We would pig out on Doritos when I was crazy upset. You taught me when to properly be stern with friends, while also being a friend. I hope that trait stays with me through college. I'll always thank you for that.

Thank you for instilling in me your strength. You went through hell and back multiple times. Even though you had to endure the unbearable, you never let us see you cry. Your smile, though sometimes fake, was always a breath of fresh air, and proved just how strong you really were. Hopefully, while you're watching over me at school, you see the strength I have seen in you.

Thank you for giving me the best life you could. We couldn't afford everything my friends could in grade school, but you always made sure that I was happy. Whether it was just a simple dinner date or you seeing something in a store and getting it because you know it would make me smile. Even when we moved away, you never failed to provide an enjoyable life. I may not use this experience in school, but know that I am the person I am today because you did all of this for me and my siblings.

Thank you for always being you, and allowing me to always be me. You will never understand just how much this means to me.

You may not be there with me when I move in, but I know you're proud of me, no matter what. I wish you were here to see the woman I have become, and I hope I turned into the woman you raised me to be. I know I'll never be the kind of woman you were, but your energy and poise is something I hope to achieve in time. You'll never understand how much you mean to me, but I know there are only two words that I can say. Thank you. I love you to Neverland and back.

Sincerely,

Your Baby Girl