Dear Mom and Dad,

Don't get me wrong, I have always been thankful for everything you do for me.

You two are the most selfless, hardworking people that I know, and our family is so incredibly lucky to have you. It was not until coming to college last year that I truly began to appreciate just how much you both do for me. Being away at school can be hard sometimes, but having you guys back at home makes it all the more bearable.

Thank you for keeping me sane.

Thank you for answering the daily (and often multiple) phone calls that probably last a lot longer than they should. School can be hard at times, but no one knows how to deal with my college stress like you guys can—even from 200+ miles away. Whether it's on the walk to class at 9 am or in the cab ride home at 3 am, there is nothing better than a phone call with one of you.

Thank you for being my biggest fans.

Thank you for supporting me in every endeavor I may embark on. From choosing a college to proceeding to change my major about a dozen different times, you both have been behind me every step of the way and I am forever thankful for that. While I'm sure it is nerve-wracking to see your kid grow up, you two support me regardless. I would not be where I am without you guys. Thanks for cheering me on all day, every day.

Thank you for the coolest care packages.

Not every student can say their parents send them a care package for every. single. holiday. Not to mention the countless restock of granola bars, cereal, and Tide pods. Thanks for brightening up so many days with that email from the campus mailroom, you guys rock.

Thank you for teaching me the wonders of direct deposit.

Let’s be honest, by the end of the semester the funds are not always looking their best. The broke struggles of a college student are very real, so thank you for understanding and financially supporting me in all of my times of need.

Thanks for trusting me.

I know that there are a lot of things that are out of your control with me not being home. Even though I’m sure it was hard to get used too, you guys have truly let me mature by myself and learn to make my own decisions. Thank you for trusting me to sign a lease on an apartment, make the drive to and from school, and pretty much live on my own in this half-kid, half-adult world known as college.

Thanks for being you.

Thank you for giving me the opportunity to come to college and grow as a person. I am so very lucky to have two people that make it so hard to leave home, but that much more special to come back.

I love you guys.

Sincerely,

Your Daughter.