Your parents are the two people who are supposed to love you no matter what stupid shenanigans you get into, the people who help you create your own identity. Parents rarely get the appreciation they deserve, so I wanted to take a moment to thank my parents for everything they've done and continue to do.

Throughout my entire life I have always had two people to lean on, no matter what happened. My parents have helped me create a solid foundation of my life. With endless advice about the adult things I just don't understand yet or the hundreds of pep talks you've given after my many breakdown, I just want to say thank you. Thank you for always providing me with every opportunity to help me succeed.

I was lucky enough to enjoy playing various sports, class trips, and all of the other activities I insisted on participating in, but you never told me no. You both made me earn these opportunities by chores or other tasks. This is something I will thank you for, for the rest of my life. By making me earn these privileges I appreciate the rewards of hard work. This is something a lot of my peers lack, so thank you for making me work everything that I have.

I know I wasn't the easiest child to deal, but looking back on all of my mistakes makes me realize how lucky I am to have parents like you. I may have hated the discipline and groundings back then, but now I understand why it was necessary. You taught me to respect those in authority and to treat others with the respect I want in return.

You've both taught me enough that I am not scared about graduating from college and entering the real world, I am excited. I am excited to see what I am capable of doing. I am even more excited that I will still have you two along for the ride (whether you like it or not). I will never outgrow needing my mom and dad. I will always need you whether it's to help with homework, wipe away my tears after my millionth meltdown of the day, or just to call and talk.

There aren't enough words in the English language to truly express how thankful I am to have you both. I hope one day I can attempt to give back to you what you have done for me. I love you both with every ounce of my being and I hope I make you as proud as you make me every day.