I told myself that when I moved to Auburn for my freshman year of college that I would be fine, that I would be OK without my parents over my shoulder all the time and that I could handle myself. Within the first week, I must have called my mom at least once a day every day for the simplest of things. I missed their faces and could hear their voices in my head when I made the smallest of decisions.

Now, it is the end of my first semester and though I call them a lot less, I miss them a lot more.

Some people wouldn't understand. They don't have the relationship with their parents that I have with mine. It's a love-hate thing. I love to annoy them and they say they hate it, but secretly wait for my texts and calls. They're there for me when I need the smallest of things and I don't think I've ever been more aware of just how much they support me, provide for me, and care for me. There have been many things that I've meant to say over the years that I never quite figured out how.

So this one's for them.

Dear Dad,

Throughout the last seven years, you have been giving me so much advice it could fill a book. We've had hundreds of arguments but in the end, we were still fine. You've taught me a lot of things but the most important is that failure is not an option. I remind myself every day and sometimes I have to remind my friends. It drives me to always do my best. So I know you're not used to hearing me say it, but thank you and I am grateful for all the drama that we've been through.

Dear Mom,

You continue to take care of me even though I annoy you beyond anyone you've ever known. You are the one I've always looked up to, the person I strive to be like and the person I'll always turn to for advice when it really matters. We've seen the dark side of each other and you know me better than anyone else in the world. I'm proud of you and all the things you've accomplished in life and hope that someday I can come close. I know parents always want their kids to do better than they did themselves, but if I end up like you, I think I'd be happy in life.

To Them Both,

Thank you means so little when compared to the countless things I've put you through and the things you've done for me. You have let me evolve into this semi-adult version of myself that I am today and I couldn't be happier. I'm sorry I don't come home often and call less, but I am trying to do better for myself, or at least the best I can. It's difficult at times and I hope you know I don't mean to hurt any feelings, ignore any texts or not call back. Some things are hard to keep up with, and some things I have to do on my own.

I love you both, and I'll be home soon.