Dear Mom,

Throughout my entire life, you’ve been my number one supporter. Whether it was gymnastics, soccer, dance, or anything else I wanted to try, you were the first person to say, “I think that’s a great idea,” or “Whatever if that is what you want to do.” Yes, sometimes Dad would be the one to drive me to this place or other, but you were the one who always wanted to see a routine or force Charlie and Alek to practice soccer with me.

You were the one who stood up for me when my brothers thought it would be funny for them to insult and taunt me by saying, “You don’t define her,” or purely by convincing them to let me join them when they were playing with toys in the large rubbermaid buckets out in the backyard. You helped us get along with each other and understand each other, and I think that’s why I’m close with them.

When I was sick and I needed to be taken care of or picked up from school, it was always you. We’d get home, you’d cook some soup, and make up a bed on the couch and tell me that whatever I needed, you’d get it for me. You’d do anything for me if it meant that I could feel better.

The title “Stay at Home Mom” is not something that deserves to be given to you. You’re so much more than that. You’ve raised three smart and healthy children while becoming a real estate agent on the side, as well as selling antiques at Lost and Found. You taught us that being ourselves was okay and putting others down to make yourself feel better is something that just isn’t okay. You’ve taught Charlie, Alek, and me so much, but I just don’t know how to thank you.

Just writing this is nothing compared to what you deserve. I’m sorry I don’t show you how much I appreciate it. I would do anything for you, whether it is buying you a Porsche when I’m older or taking care of you when you’re no longer able to take of yourself.

Thank you for being the best mom a girl could ever have. I love you so much and I hope you don’t forget that. Charlie, Alek, and I are the way were are because of you, and I wouldn’t change that for the world. Thank you for everything you’ve done for me and everything that’ll you’ll do for me in the future.

I love you, Mom.