As I've grown up a bit in college, I've learned a lot. I've learned about time management skills, how to use certain editing software, and that not everyone you thought was going to stick around actually does. However, though I have doubtlessly learned a lot in college, it has been what I've learned from the amazing women I've grown up looking up to that has been most beneficial during these hectic years.

Thank you, Mom, for having such bright, witty, strong friends that have treated me like a daughter since as far back as I can remember. Since the early years of eavesdropping from the kid's table, I've always found that there's something very comforting about listening to your parents laugh alongside their best friends, seemingly putting the stresses of adulthood on hold, even for just a moment, to indulge in each other's company. As I graduated to the adult table (well, only when there are enough chairs to do so, but it's a start), it became even more of a treat having this company over. Just from sitting among these women, observing for the most part with a few interjections here and there, I've learned so much about real friendship and what it means to be truly there for one another.

As my circle of friends has begun to warp and waiver, thinking about you and your friends has helped me be ok with the fact that it isn't the quantity, but the quality of the company you keep. Never have I encountered a group of adults that define natural humor and chemistry more and I only hope to lead my life with as much laughter and fond memories. And by the way Mom, you guys are the definition of friendship goals.

I needn't look far to find someone with open arms, ready to extend their shoulder for me to cry on, or their words of wisdom to cling onto. I grew up knowing that DNA and blood are unimportant when defining family. I grew up with the understanding that it is the love and support shared that matters in a family. And most importantly, I grew up learning that, while family may be sprinkled in Kentucky and Florida and Germany and Italy, it is important to be there not only in times of celebration and happiness, but in times strife and pain. All of these, lessons I could have never learned without these women.

Growing up in a house with an intelligent, loving Mom is not something everyone is lucky enough to experience. Though at the time, I may not have fully appreciated being dragged on educational road trips to see how the Amish live and spending hours in various museums, but I know I've only benefitted. I realize I'm blessed to have such an open-minded woman as a Mom and I can't think of a word sufficient enough to express the gratitude I have.

I take immense pride in the looking at the line of women I come from and it's that pride that made a little 12-year-old girl see her unique nose was something that connected her to her family and that she didn't need a nose job to be beautiful. It's knowing that my Oma changed her world as a teenager by traveling to America from Germany to start a different life that inspires me to be bold. It's knowing that even if I don't succeed in my efforts, these women are still always there for me, that grants me the resilience to keep trying again.

Looking at all these moms, friends, aunts, and grandmothers, I can't help but feel lucky to have grown up with them in my life. If there is one overarching, all-important thing I've learned, it's to do everything with love. So much of how I carry myself comes from what I've learned from these ladies. And while it may not always be obvious, I truly am thankful for the impact you've each had on me.