Hola Madre,

I figured I should start out this letter with my usual greeting when I call you from school; it's either that or me yelling "Mama!" down the hall at home!

I wanted to write this letter as a minuscule "thank you" for the many years of advice, teaching, and love you've offered as a mother over the last three decades. And this letter is definitely minuscule because I could never thank you enough for all you've done for our family and, specifically, me.

You are an amazing, spectacular, fantastic mama.

You've been there for me since day one, always watching out for me, even when I think I don't need it. You have taught me multiple lessons over the last 19 years of my life, and I'm sure you'll continue to teach me new things in the coming years.

You were the one who taught me that it was okay and often necessary to take a breather from our busy lives. You were also the one who taught me to do my makeup and nails when I was younger.

You and daddy took me to church every Sunday and shared the job of taking me to dance class once a week growing up.

You showed me what a wife and mother should be like and how she can radiate love to everyone around her. You also attempted to teach me how to cook, and I learned a few things, even though we both know I prefer baking much more.

You have been a constant companion and friend these last 19 years, even more so now that I'm older. In the last year-and-a-half, you have easily become my best friend and I now know that you and daddy have always been my #1 cheerleaders in life.

There are so many big and little lessons in my life that, when I look back on them, always seem to be connected to you somehow. Whether it's learning how to shave or how to drive more than 15 miles per hour, you were there alongside me for the ride!

I can't begin to tell you how much you really mean to me and our family, but I can say that you are the strongest person I have ever met. I love you when you're strong, when you're weak, and all of the above.

I love you to infinity and beyond.

Love,

Bryana