My parents were young when I was born. Needless to say, I wasn't a "planned" baby. Growing up, I was raised by my mom and dad, obviously, but they had a ton of help from the rest of my family, especially my great grandparents and grandparents. Even though my mom was young when she had me, she still managed to work through college, but it was my grandparents who helped her do that. I remember being babysat by my great grandmom and walking to the corner store with her so she could play her lottery. That's one of my favorite memories of my childhood. My mom and dad were from the same neighborhood, but when I was born, my mom's family decided to move elsewhere where there were better opportunities for me to get the education I deserved. I stayed with my dad on the weekends, and while he was working, I could always count on my grandparents to take care of me. Whether it was entertaining me with Disney movies, or making my favorite Mickey Mouse pancakes, they were always there.

I've always considered myself lucky to have my grandparents as a sort of second set of parents. I'll admit, at times it was annoying to always have to please and follow the rules of not only my mom and dad, but them as well. However, in the long run, it's made me more of a well-rounded person and I would not be the person I am today if it wasn't for them. There are way too many things I'd like to thank the people that helped raised me for, but I'd especially like to thank them for these few things:

1. Thank you for supporting my mom and dad from day one.

I'm sure it wasn't the greatest day of your life, finding out that my mom was pregnant at a young age (the greatest day would be April 2, when I was born, duh). However, you stuck by my parents and offered endless support no matter what. Thank you for giving them that and being their back bones from that day up until now.

2. Thank you for spoiling me rotten; I appreciate it even though I don't always show it.

From when I was a baby, up until now, I've never had to worry about if I was going to eat today, if I had enough money for clothes that I wanted, or even school supplies that I needed. Part of that is because of you. My mom and dad worked very hard to give me everything I've ever wanted, don't get me wrong, but you guys have helped them so much along the way, and you never hesitated once to offer your help.

3. Thank you for teaching me right from wrong.

The morals that I have today were instilled in me by my parents and you guys. I was a hand full to deal with growing up, and I still am, but no matter what, you've always made sure to correct me when I'm wrong and support me when I'm right. Because of you, I know to treat the janitor with the same respect as the CEO. You've taught me to always stay humble and always stay kind. No matter what.

4. Thank you mom-mom (x2) for making sure I always stay in-touch with my religion.

Growing up, I went to church every weekend usually with my dad's mom, and after I made my last sacrament in school, I stopped going. I remember hating sitting through the "boring" masses and complaining when I had to go to church. Even though I don't come to church that often, I've never forgotten that I am a Roman Catholic. I've always turned to God when I felt like I couldn't turn to anyone else. I know I complain about getting up early for mass, but just know that I still haven't forgotten about God, and I still haven't forgotten how important He is to you guys.

5. Thank you for being the rocks of the families.

My grand parents on my mom and dad's side are the glue that holds the family together. Without you guys, I'd be nothing, and our families would be nothing. You guys are the most selfless people I know. Thank you for putting everyone else's needs before your own. We appreciate you, and we love you more than you'll ever know.

I guess what they say is true that "it takes a whole village to raise a child." My grandparents along with my regular parents are my village. They keep me going when I want to quit. I owe everything I am to them. My mom and dad, I'm sure, could have made it work on their own. However, having their parents as support systems helped them a long way. Thank you guys so much for everything you've done for me, big or small. I love you guys to the moon and back.