Dear Mom,

When we would get into arguments, the one thing I will always consistently remember you saying is "You don't say 'thank you' enough or realize how much I do for you." In the moment (especially with how hard-headed and stubborn I am), of course, I didn't want to believe that, but looking back, I know it was true. I was so fortunate to grow up with a mother like you, so I want to take the time now to say "thank you ..."

For after a long day of work, coming home and still putting food on the table. Even after you were tired or had a bad day, you always managed to put whatever it was aside and make a delicious dinner.

For wiping away my tears when some stupid boy broke my heart, when I got into a fight with a friend, or had a scary nightmare. I could always count on you, your shoulder and a gentle hand with a box of tissues.

For being my number-one fan. You never missed any of my of games (even before I developed hand-eye coordination). I knew I could always count on you to be the loudest, and sometimes most obnoxious, fan. Even though I learned to tune you out, I always knew you were there cheering me on.

For dealing with my over-emotional teenage self. When I wanted the $100 jeans from Hollister and you said no, I pouted the whole way home. When I wanted to keep the car and stay out past midnight every weekend; thank you for providing me with rules and guidelines to follow. Thank you for not punishing me too severely when I didn't follow them.

For catching me in small lies, which only taught me to value honesty.

For playing supermom. You play the role of a mom, a nurse, a tissue, a cook, a chauffeur, a best friend, a mentor, a teacher. And so much more.

For bringing me into this world, and raising me with a strong head on my shoulders, good morals and strong belief in myself that I can do anything I put my mind to.

For putting my needs before yours. Whether it was new clothes, shoes, food, or even the last piece of cake. You never hesitated to put your needs after mine.

For arguing with me during my teenage years, and for your patience throughout them, because I know I was sort of a brat.

For always making me feel beautiful and making sure no one else could make me feel different.

For making me work hard for what I want, and for teaching me that if I want something, I need to do whatever I can to achieve it. And also, marrying a rich man wouldn't hurt.

For cleaning up after me. From my pounds of laundry to my messy room, and all my dirty dishes.

For making me wear a jacket, gloves, and a scarf, even when I thought I didn't need one. But after I realized how cold it was, I'm thankful you argued with me to do so.

For grounding me. It taught me right from wrong. That my actions weren't always justified, and that sometimes I was definitely in the wrong.

There are millions of things that I can thank you for. But the most important thing is just being you. I couldn't ask for a better mom. You have taught me many life lessons, and how to deal with anything that comes my way. I do appreciate you and everything you do; and the older I get, the more I realize how much you do for me. My only hope is that someday I can be half the mother that you are.

Love,

Your Daughter