My mom is my superhero.
Don't get me wrong, I love my dad too. More than words can even explain. But I think when we're growing up, dads are the ones who are seen as the protectors and providers. The saying isn't really 'mama's girl,' it's 'daddy's little girl'. Just hear me out for a second.
My mom is the most amazing woman. She is the strongest human being I have ever met and she has the kindest heart. She works harder than what is required and puts in more time than is asked of her. She took me to dance, gymnastics, watched every softball game from the time I was five years old until I was fifteen years old. She's the one who curled my hair for high school dances and held my hand when I crossed the street. Her open arms were the arms I ran to whenever I was sad or struggling. And I think sometimes when we think of superheroes we think of our dads because women aren't generally seen as superheroes.
But my mom is.
My mom is a light on the darkest days and going away to college has made me appreciate her that much more. When you're in high school and she's constantly worrying about you and hovering and asking questions, you get frustrated. Most teenagers (at some point in their lives) feel like they need a little bit of time and space away from their parents.
College gives you just what you want, but have you ever heard the saying, "Be careful what you wish for?"
Going off to college has made me realize how much my mother resembles a real life superhero. Even when she is over one hundred miles away, she's still the first person I call with any news I have. She is the person I miss the most when I need a shoulder to lean on or some arms to hug me. She is the wise old owl who I call when I need advice. She's not my best friend - there's a clear difference between my friendships and my relationship with my mother. But she's my mother and I think that's the only way to describe that kind of relationship.
She is my biggest fan, best role model, brightest smile, funniest joke, favorite home-cooked meal, and I am a mama's little girl.
So I guess this is one big thank you to the woman who not only gave me life, but changed my life. I literally would not be the person I am today if I hadn't had you in my life and there's no way I can ever thank you enough for all the things you've done.
You deserve an island and vacation for the rest of your life, but I'm kind of a poor college student. So you might just have to settle for a big hug and some quality time when I come home home on the weekends.
Love you more, Mama.
