Dear Mom and Dad,

Words cannot describe how thankful I am for you guys, and I can’t thank you enough for giving me the opportunity to attend Florida State University. Thank you for being the best support system I could ask for these past four years, and for always encouraging me to do my best.

I remember the day you guys dropped me off for my first semester like it was yesterday. We were all standing outside of the Degraff gravel parking lot trying to hide our tears, unknown of what was to come. I remember being so excited to embark on this journey, but so scared because I had never spent more than a week away from you guys. Even though it was hard at times, thank you for making the transition into college so easy and for always reminding me that you were just a phone call away.

Through all the ups and downs that college brought me, you guys were always there for me whenever I needed it. Any time I needed a break from this town, you guys welcomed me home with open arms and a home cooked meal. You were there for me for every failed test, stupid boy drama, mental breakdowns and I can’t thank you enough for that.

You both are two of the most selfless people that I know, and I admire you for that. You guys not only sent me to college, but I also had the opportunity to attend it with my best friend and sister. Thank you for sacrificing so much in order to send us both to the best University in the world. I know having two kids in college, and one on the way was difficult, but like always you guys put us first and did whatever it took in order to make sure that it was possible. You guys did everything, and more, to make this experience one that I will cherish for the rest of my life.

I know I put you two through many stressful situations and drove you guys insane, so I thank you for putting up with me. Thank you for putting up with all of my reckless and careless decisions I have made over the years. Thank you for accepting the fact that I got my car towed the first day of classes my freshman year. Thank you for paying for hundreds of parking tickets. Thank you for supporting my constant broken phone struggles. But despite all of this, thank you for calling me everyday. Thank you for always being there to comfort me after a bad day. And most importantly thank you for the endless love and support.

With Graduation approaching, I can’t help but look back on these past four years and think about the two people who made it all possible. I wouldn’t be the person I am today if it wasn’t for the two of you and everything I have learned over the past four years. I know I don’t say it enough, but I am so thankful for everything you do and for giving me the opportunity to experience college at Florida State. I only hope that I can give my future kids half of what you gave me. I love you guys.

Sincerely,

A Grateful Kid

P.S. If you got teary-eyed reading this, just remember I’ll be living with you again in like two weeks so the party’s over.