Mom and Dad,

It’s time. I'm leaving home to live on campus. I won’t be seeing you every day. I may not talk to you every day. But I want you to know that everything is going to be okay. I want you to keep the following in mind while I’m away because I know that you are for-sure going to freak out here and there.

1. There aren’t many boys around.

Let’s face it, the girl:boy ratio at my school is like 3:1 and I have no time to keep up with them considering I have two jobs and school full-time. So don’t worry. There aren’t any boys toying with my heart.

2. I’m not ignoring your phone calls.

As much as I would love to be able to answer every phone call and text messages, I won’t be able to. I’ve got classes all day, I work, I study, and I somehow need to find time to eat, shower and sleep. Don’t be upset with me if I don't answer, just know I will get back to you as soon as possible, and if there was something wrong, my school or one of my friends would let you know. It’s okay to relax a little.

3. I’m not drunk.

I don’t have the time or the money to spend on getting drunk and if by chance my friends and I go out, I know all of the rules. Sober driver or call the two of you for a ride, don’t go home with a guy, always let you know where I am, and never go out alone.

4. You’ll still have to remind me of appointments.

I might be away from home and legally an adult, but I’m only human. I have a lot on my plate and I’ll probably forget to go see my doctor, or take my vitamins, or see my dentist. So please help a girl out and remind me.

5. Take good care of my fur baby.

Shayla has never been more than 3 days without seeing me in the 5 and 1/2 years since we rescued her. She won’t want to eat. She won’t want to go to the park. She won’t want to do anything. Please play with her. Call her princess(she loves when I call her that). Give her treats, but make sure she does all of the tricks I taught her! Let her sleep in my bed during the day, but make sure she cuddles with you at night, she doesn’t like to be alone. Remind her that Mommy is coming home soon and I love her.

6. Dad, Be patient with my brother.

When you were his age, you didn’t have it all figured out either. Just be patient with him. He’s a smart man and he gets that from you. You’ll just drive yourself crazy trying to fight with him, because honestly the two of you are very similar.

7. Also, don’t let my fish die.

I would take him to school with me, but he would probably die or starvation considering I forget to feed myself.

I’ll be home from time to time. I love you both very much. Try not to have too much fun while I’m out of the house.

PS: My roommate and I greatly appreciate any food deliveries you might choose to make throughout the year.

Love Always,

Still your little princess.