There are not enough words in the English language to describe how thankful I am for the day (around 20 years ago) when two people fell in love. They selflessly committed the rest of their lives to each other and their family. Ever since I can remember, my mom and dad have been my two biggest fans, supporters and encouragers. So, here's to you, mom and dad, for surviving nineteen years of this giant personality.
1. Thank you for keeping me grounded.
We all know that the times you took away my cell phone for saying "whatever" at the two of you and being disrespectful while talking back has helped me in the long run. (Even though I slammed my door every time).
2. Thank you for allowing me to grow, even when it wasn't easy.
You two nailed parenting when you gave me room to wiggle as long as I proved to you that I was responsible. Mom, I know dropping me off for my first bonfire with boys was a big step for you. Thank you for trusting me.
3. Thank you for reminding me to "always be light."
Everywhere I go, I remember that it is important to be kind and respectful to others. You two taught me that no matter how dark the storm, there is always an opportunity to be a light in someone's life.
4. Thank you for rooting our family in faith.
You have taught my sisters and I to live and love like Jesus did. You have done this by example. I can only hope I will be as great at this to my kids as you two were to us.
5. Thank you for still loving me after my speeding ticket.
Ah, yes, the infamous speeding ticket. It is brought up at every family event. Every social function. The story has been told 100 times but for some reason it just does not get old, does it?
6. Thank you for protecting me from disrespectful boys.
Daddy, you are a tough act to follow. It's going to take one hell of a man to live up to the example that you have set. The way you love mommy and the way you love me is undoubtedly the way every girl should be treated.
7. Thank you for funding all my social events.
Also, thank you for buying every sorority t-shirt. You can never have enough, right?
8. Thank you for loving me through the summer before I left for college.
I know my attitude hit an all-time high. You two should know that is just how I dealt with the thought of moving three hours away from you two.
9. Thank you for keeping our home filled with laughter.
There is nothing I love more than unable-to-breathe-sore-stomach laughter. Whether it was from a tickle fight when I was little, or a sarcastic comment at the dinner table, you two have made it so easy to smile every day of my life.
10. Thank you for giving me wings to fly.
I love you both so much. You two have given me confidence. You have given me strength. You have instilled in me that I am successful, bright and beautiful. Or as dad says, loudly, every morning at 6:30, "You're a superstar!"
