Dear Carla (Mom),

I’m going to start this out with a huge thank you. I’m sure it doesn’t seem like you've done much for me, but you most definitely have. Because four months ago I packed up all of my clothes, a suitcase full of shoes and moved away from a very protective family and into a small space with a girl I barely knew. 764 miles away from home.

My first semester of college was a tiny continuos battle for me. Okay, it wasn’t tiny. It was huge. And let’s be completely honest here, first semester kicked my butt. KO’ed before I could even wave the white flag. In a time that was completely hectic and chaotic, I was relieved to find a calm in the midst of the storm with a family away from home.

I was so caught off guard by the way you immediately welcomed me. You didn’t know who I was, I could've been some crazy misfit, but something tells me that wouldn't have stopped you from being so nice to me. I know it really doesn’t seem like much, but I was going through mom withdrawals and you didn’t skip a beat before you started being a huge positive influence in my life.

From the texts telling me what medicine to buy, to talking about Clueless and venting about my emotions, I could never begin to thank you enough. Not to mention the numerous prayers you’ve sent my way, and tough situations you’ve talked me down from. You’re such a light in my life and I thank God for you whenever I think about it. You’re a God wink to myself and everyone you know. I’m so extremely lucky to have your son as a best friend, and I have you to thank for that.

Thank you for teaching Jake to respect women. Thank you for raising him to be humble and selfless. I can’t count the times that he has come to my rescue when I’ve been upset or in trouble. Thank you for raising him in Christ and teaching him the importance of prayer. The countless prayers from both him and you have definitely saved my butt more than a couple of times.

I’m a firm believer that a girl can never have too may positive female influences in her life, and I’m so happy to say that you’ve been and will continue to be the type of woman I want to be. You’ve raised amazing children and they are beyond blessed to have truly an inspiring mother.

There is so much more that I could thank you for, and I know saying thank you for everything wouldn't even cover it, but seriously, thank you for everything.

With love,

Moog