Dear Mom,

Time travels quickly, you know? It is pretty strange to think that twenty years ago I was still your baby. I don't doubt you still look at me that way, and I know you always will, but I also know that you see me for what I am now: an adult attempting to get their sh*t together.

I cannot believe how much we have conquered over the years. You've watched me tackle some of mine biggest challenges and achieve some of my most ambitious goals, and are still rooting for me to continue to do so. And I, from the bottom of my heart, thank you for that.

No matter how many times you tell me, I could never imagine the things you had to sacrifice and endure in order for your children to succeed. We were not fortunate enough to have silver spoons feeding us everything we wanted off of a silver platter, but I can truthfully say that you walked to the ends of the earth to make it seem as if that was the case. Through everything you did, you gave me a beautiful and memorable childhood. You gave me things I hope that I can give to my own children, someday.

I know how frustrating it is to be a mother. Well, I don't know, I'm not one. However, I'm certain that it is one of the toughest jobs in the entire world. I know that it must be aggravating to bend over backwards for all of those around you, and forget to give time to yourself, but I hope that we made and continue to make all of the late nights you spent working, the countless hours you've spent picking up our careless messes and the numerous times you've had to be the strong one and keep us together, even when you want to break down and cry yourself, completely worth it.

There is absolutely no way I could ever repay you for anything you've done for me. I just hope you know I am forever grateful, for everything.

You accomplished so much more than what you believe in raising us.

You continued your education with two children but always made sure to help us learn first. Do you remember how you'd study French while giving me bubble baths? Apparently, I caught on and learned to count to ten. And one of my absolute favorite memories is sitting in our rocking chair together and reading Dr. Seuss, although I wish I had another favorite book besides "The Foot Book."

I've seen you work two jobs, back-to-back, sleeping an hour or two in between shifts. I've seen you walk away from situations where the hardest thing to do was leave. More importantly, I have seen you grow from the strongest woman I know to an even stronger woman than that.

You've taught me to never take anybody's sh*t, and to never become lazy, to always put in 100%. You have given up the world to help your children grow. I can only hope that I will be half of the woman you are.

I know that the older I get, and the more I build my own life outside of your home, you'll miss me more and more. Always remember that you are my best friend and I love you more than life itself. I miss you every single day I'm not with you, mom.

Thank you,

Your Princess