Dear Mom,

You are one of the most loving, compassionate, tenderhearted—yet stern—and inspirational mothers. No other mom even begins to compare to you. The cliché, “My mom is my best friend,” has become overused. You are truly my best friend, now and forever. There are many times I find myself wanting to hang out with you, instead of my friends. I just want you to know that leaving you to go to college is by far the hardest thing. Thank you for raising me to be an independent, hardworking and responsible young lady.

I can never thank you enough for all that you have done for me and all that you continue to do for me. You have tended to me endlessly.

Thank you for teaching me how to respect others, but myself also. Thank you for making me use "yes, ma’am" and "yes, sir," "please" and "thank you." You taught me to be considerate of others.

Thank you for not raising me to be a spoiled brat. I have learned that being spoiled and getting everything you want does not get you anywhere in life. And thank you for punishing me, when needed, because it sure has molded me into the person I am.

Thank you for being that person I can talk to about anything and everything. You always have an ear to listen and the best advice to give. Whenever I have a stressful day, you are the person I take comfort in. Thanks for always being there.

Thank you for teaching me how to be frugal. I know how to save my money and find great deals on the things I want/need because of you. As much as I hate to say it, couponing is very much so my friend. And thank you for being my Target clearance rack shopping buddy. It’s my favorite thing to do when I’m bored and I don’t like doing it with anyone else.

Thank you for the numerous shopping trips, even though we both know I don’t need more clothes. You always help me find the perfect outfit for that special occasion. You’ll forever be my shopping buddy because shopping without you just isn’t the same.

Thank you for always making sure I look my best. Every prom and homecoming you did whatever it took to make sure I felt beautiful. Not many moms are willing to search up and down Alabama to find the perfect gown for that special event. Thank you for teaching me that beauty isn’t just physical, but what’s on the inside.

Thank you for cuddling in bed with me drinking Icees and eating M&M’s while watching "Grey’s Anatomy," "Bachelorette/Bachelor," "Friends," "Gilmore Girls," or whatever TV show it might be. Those are some of our best memories that I’ll forever cherish.

Thank you for being the Lorelai to my Rory, except 100 times better.

You have given me everything. You have sacrificed everything. And I can never express to you my gratitude.

I am lucky to call you my mom, but also my best friend. I look forward to transitioning our friendship into my adult life because 330 miles could never keep you from being my best friend.

As I get older, I realize more and more how much you have done for me and continue to do for me. These only name a few.

“I’ll love you forever, I’ll like you for always, As long as I’m living my mom, you will be.“

I love you, Mom. Always remember—I am, forever, your little girl.

Your daughter,

Ashley