To my mom,

It is impossible to put into words everything I appreciate about you but I am going to try my best.

Ever since I was a little girl, I have always looked up to you. You have been my biggest motivator through every single stage of my life. You have been my rock through hard times, life decisions and new chapters. You have held the title, year after year, of my best friend.

As the years have passed, I realize that when I was younger, I never truly understood how much you do for our family. You have carried us when we’ve felt like we couldn’t go on. You have reminded us that tomorrow is always a better day. You have shown us what it is to love unconditionally. Although I make fun of you for talking so much that you could probably hold a conversation with a wall, I am truly in awe of your ability to show others your heart through striking up a conversation with all whom you meet. I sincerely admire this quality in you.

All I can say is, thank you. Two words that seem insignificant in comparison to all that you do for me. Thank you for having such a strong influence on my life and for living your life in the way I hope to live mine. Thank you for being my shoulder to cry on no matter the situation. Thank you for watching my horrible teenager shows with me just so we could hang out and scheme on what we thought was going to happen in the next episode. Thank you for answering the phone with the same enthusiasm every time I call, even when it’s the fifth or sixth time in a day.

Thank you for showing me what it takes to be the biggest boss in the game. The value you place on commitment and hard work have proved that anyone can achieve their dreams if they are dedicated enough. You taught me to work for what I want and to stand up for what I believe in. Because of you, I know to never back down, and I’m a better person because of it. Thank you for proving to me that the beach is the only true heaven on earth. Thank you for making me believe in myself and forcing me to never settle for less than I deserve. Thank you for calling me out, though, when I expect more than I have worked for – you keep me grounded. Thank you for raising me to be an independent person, but making sure I know it’s okay to need you every now and then. Thank you for laughing at my jokes, and for all the times you’ve laughed so hard that you’ve cried, causing me to laugh so hard I cry. You show me that it’s okay to be exactly who I am by reminding me that I’ll always have someone who loves me for who I am, flaws and all. I am eternally grateful.

You are the most important person in my life, and you always will be. You are the strongest person I know, full of passion and kindness, and I am incredibly blessed to have the opportunity to be influenced by you for all of my life. You’re my role model, and I’m thankful you passed down some of your best qualities. Everyone knows I got my independence, stubbornness (yes, everyone knows it) and heart from you, and I couldn’t be more thankful. Your ability to do it all amazes me. I wouldn’t be the woman I am today if it weren’t for you. Thank you for absolutely everything. You are my hero.

Love always,

Your daughter