Dear Mom and Dad,
This letter is definitely long overdue — better late than never, right? I can't even begin to tell you how lucky I am to have been raised by the two best people I know. Sure, I complain sometimes that y'all embarrass me or feel like I'm the adult and y'all are my kids (especially at Walmart). Y'all tell bad jokes that make me smile anyway and always know what I'm thinking. You know my weird habits and quirks that I got from both of you. Y'all say I'm bossy, but let’s be honest about where I got that. But you also encourage me to do my best and a little bit better. Push me to go above and beyond because you know that I can. You encourage me always and never doubt me. You’re always on my side, even if it’s not right. I’ve never felt unloved or unwanted. I grew up with two parents who love each other and have shown me what it’s like to be in a healthy, God-focused relationship. You taught me some people aren’t worth my time so don’t waste it on them. You taught me to love myself and be comfortable with who I am. Sometimes it’s OK to be wrong, it happens to everyone. I’ve learned to be able to laugh at myself and see the good in people. The most important of all is that you taught me to never take it for granted.
The life I lived and love I received from y'all isn't something that everyone gets the chance to grow up in. I get to brag about y'all for never missing a dance class or recital. For giving me so many fun memories that still make me laugh. For letting me have a cat even though I was the only one who wanted him. It's a life that I would give anything to get to do over again. You never make me feel like a burden and always put me before yourself in every situation. You humored me and gently reminded me to not be so bossy all the time. You loved me at my worst and taught me how to make every day my best. And I know I've said it over and over again, but there aren't words for how appreciative I am to have been raised by the two of you. Thank you for long nights and letting me choose the movie. Thank you for doing my laundry and making family dinners a nightly thing. Thank you for all the little things you do that I forget to thank you for. Thank you for buying me flowers and finding a way to cheer me up no matter what. Thank you for teaching me to drive on the backroads and not getting too mad when I accidentally hit the tool table when I pulled into the garage. And for all the times in the future that I should have said and never did: thank you.
