I tell my mom everything. Whether I call once a week, every few days, or even sometimes twice a day, she always picks up. What’s better than calling, though, is being able to find time to have lunch. These lunch dates with my mom always lead to some common conversations:

1. "I'm so stressed"

Telling my mom about how I have two papers to write, an exam to study for and errands to run always seems like a better idea than actually doing all these tasks. Hearing her say that she believes in me gives me the motivation to actually start everything and not let her down.

2. "Are you ready for me to vent?”

Of course some time has to be spent venting about random things happening in my life. By the end, I realize how great of advice she gives. Moms are, for the most part, always right. You’re welcome, mom.

3. "No, I'm not seeing anyone new"

I’m always waiting for the question from my mom, “So, are you seeing anyone?” No, and I’m okay with that. Don’t worry, you’ll be the first to know when I am.

4. "Look what I just bought the other day!"

Whether it’s a new outfit or concert tickets, my mom will know. Usually, she already knows by the text asking if the clothes look good on me, but there’s no harm in telling her again!

5. "What's new at home?"

How’s my brother doing? How are the cats? How are you? What’s the gossip around town? Oh, they’re building a new restaurant? Even though it can be sad to hear everything going on without me, it still gives me happiness hearing about life back at home and remembering my time spent there.

6. "I miss you guys"

At times, I do really miss home and my mom. Always having her in the next room was comforting. I tell her this all the time. What I also tell her is that my goal is to make my family proud and knowing that they will always be there for me gives me the motivation I need to get through being stressed.

7. And last but not least, there's always the debate after lunch, "Should we get dessert?"