Dear Mama,

So, here we are. I'm in the last semester of my first year at college. I really feel like I've learned things about myself in these past few months, and while I don't think I've completely changed, I have grown. There's so much that's happened, and so much I've had to do for myself: laundry, groceries, class, clubs, making new friends, seeing old friends. As the older kid in our family, when you dropped me off, I was kinda nervous - I had no idea what I was doing, but then again, neither did you. But I know that there was no reason for me to be scared because of how great you did preparing me for adulthood. Coming into college this year, I was a confident, grounded, and strong young woman and that is nothing except a reflection of your guidance. When I was little, you taught me to be myself and to always stand tall. You helped me in the directions I wanted, but also made sure they were beneficial. I owe my personality, interests, and loves to you because you allowed me to be in an environment that fostered growth.

You've taught me so much about what it means to be a servant, a woman, and about putting others first. My whole life, you've been the person I've aspired to be, and I can honestly classify our relationship as a Lorelai-Rory type of duo. I know you've told me before that as I grow up, you're glad you're not only my mother but also my friend, and I am so, so thankful that you are one of my best friends. So, because of you, I have a head on my shoulders. Because of you, I'm unafraid to follow my dreams (or significantly less afraid). And because of you, I know that when I become a mother, if my kids have even a fraction of the experience I did, they'll be A-ok.

Signed,

The daughter that really loves you