To the woman who was there for my first steps, first words, first days of schools, first heartbreak and for the future firsts, thank you. As I was growing up, I didn't have much of an appreciation for the things that matter like the food I eat, clothes I wear and love I receive from my family. As I have grown up, I have learned to appreciate all the little things. Whether it is sitting at the kitchen table on a Sunday morning laughing until we cry, staying in on a Friday night and eating Chinese food, or just having cuddle sessions during the week. I appreciate it. More importantly, I appreciate you.

To my Mom,

Thank you for always being there for me. There has never been a day in my life where I have doubted that you are there supporting and loving me. Knowing that I have a 24/7 support system makes it that much easier to take risks, make mistakes and learn from those mistakes. I am able to fall fearlessly into life and truly learn what this great big world has to offer.

Thank you for teaching me the true meaning of love. You have taught me that love is not just about hugs and kisses. It is about the random acts of kindness that you do for a person. When I was growing up, you showed up to all of my sporting events, made me my favorite meals when I was upset and spent time with me when I needed it. All of these little acts have helped me form the love that you have for me. You have taught me what it means to give love and be loved and for that, I will forever be grateful.

Thank you for always being selfless.

Over the last few years, I have noticed ways in which you show how selfless you are, but the one that most stood out to me was a few months ago. August 20, 2017, was move in day for my sorority and also happened to be your birthday. On the 20th you, dad and Billy drove 2.5 hours to help carry boxes upon boxes up to my third-floor room of my sorority house. Then, you took me to run errands to get some items that I forgot at home and you took me out to eat. You then drove 2.5 hours back home.

So all in one day you drove 5 hours, helped me unpack and put everything away in my room, bought me items that I needed and took me to lunch all on your birthday. You spent your day helping me instead of celebrating you and that is what I call a selfless person. I know that there is not anything you would not do for me and there is not anything that I would not do for you.

Lastly, thank you for being you. In the past 19 years, you have taught me how to be a loving, selfless, supportive young woman and I could not have asked for more in a mother. Thank you for being my role model and my best friend because without you I would be lost in this great big world. I hope to grow up one day and be half of the mother, wife and friend that you are.

Love,

Your daughter