To my mom who also happens to be my best friend,

First off, I'd like to say thanks. Thanks for always standing by me and supporting me through everything. Thank you for believing in me no matter what I decided to pursue, and in spite of those who were trying to convince me to pursue something else. Thanks for encouraging me to follow my dreams, and to never give up. For always being a phone call away during a 3 a.m. mental breakdown, and for knowing what to say to calm me down. And for driving to school every semester before exam week just to give me my exam package full of treats to get me through the week (which always includes chocolate-covered espresso beans because you know they're my fave).

Thanks for encouraging me to be a better person, for giving me advice when I don't know what to do, and for showing me that kindness and honestly are two of the best virtues.

Thanks for raising me in a Christian home, constantly praying for me, and showing me what having a strong faith looks like. For teaching me that no matter what happens in life, God always comes first. And then for living what you teach by trusting in Him throughout some of your biggest trials. For coming to every chorus concert, every soccer game, every tennis match, and every piano recital. For preparing me to live on my own, by teaching me how to cook, how to wash clothes, and how to fold a fitted sheet (because honestly, folding those things is a major struggle and one needs to be taught how to do it). Thanks for never stopping short of going out of your way to provide me with more than enough.

Not only are you a wonderful mom and best friend, but a role model. You've taught me some of the most important things in life, and most of the time you know me better than I know myself.

Happy Mother's Day, mom. But honestly you deserve to be recognized during every day of the year. And someday, I hope to be half the mom that you are to me, and I am so thankful to have you in my life.

I love you.