Dear Mom,

If only I could put into words how much you mean to me. There's nothing I will ever be able to say that will completely thank you for everything you've ever done for me or all the wisdom you've ever given me. I can't imagine how I would make it through this life without you carrying me through the tough times and cheering me on through the happy times. Everyday I thank God for you, and I can't even begin to thank you for being the woman that you are. But, here's a start.

Thank you for always loving me.

I can't imagine how difficult it must have been for you to raise three children on your own, and I can't imagine how stressed out you might have been while we were growing up. But, not once throughout my whole life have I ever felt unloved by you. I know that at times I have been stubborn and cold, and you always tell me that "seventeen was the hardest", but I have spent my whole life knowing that I am unconditionally loved and that I always will be.

Thank you for being proud.

If anyone has taught me about hard work it was you. You pushed me to obtain above average grades and set the highest goals for myself because you refuse to settle for mediocrity so we should too. Thank you for having such strong values and beliefs and never backing down from them. Thank you for teaching me to be humble no matter how well off I am and teaching me to be proud when I occasionally fail.

Thank you for teaching me independence.

You have showed me that I don't have to lean on anybody for anything, because I can take care of myself. You have showed me that independence is strength, and I can accomplish anything I put my mind to. You taught me that my self value and worth do not rely on anyone's perception or appreciation of me, but on my own self-awareness and respect.

Thank you for not being "the cool mom."

Having your mom be a "cool mom" sounds faultless in theory, but I'm so glad you weren't. Looking back, I'm incredibly grateful you set curfews, gave me chores, and never offered me a drink. You not only made me gain indefinite respect for you, but you raised me to be a responsible, cautious young adult. I've heard it said that strict parents create sneaky children, but you created just the opposite. You raised children who can be responsible and set priorities, and for that I am forever thankful.

Most importantly, thank you for picking up my pieces and putting them back together.

Thank you for letting me call you crying at five in the morning when my world falls apart. Thank you for giving me a place to come home to whenever I'm feeling sad or lonely, and holding me while I cry. Sometimes I feel like I'm a toddler again, and I just need you to hug me to make me feel better, and you never make me feel too old to be in your arms. Thank you for supporting my decisions, and giving me a helping hand whenever I need it. Thank you for making your children your whole life, and never making me feel forgotten.

Even though I could never be able to thank you for everything, I do want to thank you for the things that always resonate with me. If I grow up to be even half the woman you are, I'll be incredibly lucky.

I love you to the moon and back,

Your almost-adult daughter