I know how dramatic, irratating, loud, sarcastic, and completely out of control I can be--this is a typical day in our house-- so thank you for the unconditional love you have given me amongst all my flaws and imperfections.

It has now been almost twenty years since you gave life to me; that is seriously a long time to spend with me and the fact that that you both did it with the most patience and care that is possible in a human beuing. The gift that you both have given me, the precious and beautiful gift of life, is so precious and so valuable, I can never repay you for it. I can never thank you enough for the countless nights that you both stayed up in order to give me comfort and care while I was sick or the times that you sat in the crowds of people, taking pictures of me while I recieved awards.

Never will I be able to thank you enough for instilling the values and traditions that you both did: determination, percervierance, respect, and the art of being humble.

"Write down four things that have shaped who you are today."

I was asked to this pressing question at an event for the college. Before I even had the chance to write it down--or even think about an answer-- I already knew that the most significant and influential people in my life were you two, my loving, caring, and unyeilding parents.

Our family may not have money, expensive cars, designer clothes and watches, or even a house to call our own. However, what we lack in material and worldly possesions we make up for in laughter, smiles, in precious quality time together, all far more valuable than any riches.

See, Mom and Dad, I know raising me has clearly been a walk on the beach--kidding. I can never thank you enough for every birthday celebrated, for every Christmas spent together, and every day that I've been blessed to spend with you two. Thank you for giving me three beautiful sisters whom I love more than anything-- yes, I love you munchkins infinitely.

Being parents, I can only imagine, is exhausting, difficult, and hopefully fufilling. Thank you for picking me up every single time I fell and fixing me up. Thank you for watching me closely while I played, and for protecting me against the world. I am eternally endebted to both of you for teaching me to have faith in God and teaching me the power and strength behind prayer.

But most importantly, Mom and Dad, thank you for demonstrating unconditional love to me, for the comforting hugs, the wise speeches, and for guiding me towards the honest path. Thank you for supporting me and for giving me that same love even when I'm hundreds of miles away. I can never thank you enough for everything you've given me.

I love you so much Mom and Dad.

Los queiro y amo muchisimo Mama y Papa.