Dear Childhood Bedroom,

I know it's been awhile since I've really spent some time in you, but I was thinking the other day about how much you really mean to me, and I figured I should tell you just what I'm thankful for.

You've been there for me for, well, forever. Ever since I was little, you were my shelter and escape from the world. You were where make-believe and reality collided for my childhood, and I can't thank you enough for letting me use your furniture to transform you into a castle, circus, schoolroom, or whatever else my small mind could create.

You were where I stood in the mirror every day, dancing while putting on my clothes for first days of school and dances. You watched me grow, transforming from a happy child to a teenager full of doubt and insecurity. You saw both the days I beamed with confidence as well as those where I stood in frustration, gripping and squeezing the parts of me I tried to wish away, yet you loved me for both.

You remained a safe haven for the days when parent's fighting became too much, for the days I needed to come home from school and just cry into a pillow, and every day in between. Sorry for slamming your doors so hard, writing and scribbling notes and poetry on your walls, and forgetting to pick my clothes up off the floor, you deserved to be a little cleaner after all you sat through for me.

I miss you. I miss being able to have a room to only call mine, and I miss having a place I was certain would be there for me every day. I know someday you won't be mine anymore, and maybe you'll be able to make another child feel happy and safe, but in my mind you will always be more than just four walls. You were the room I grew up in, you were where I laughed, cried, smiled, threw fits, and practiced my hobbies and passions. You were truly the place I discovered myself in, and I will be forever grateful for everything you offered me.

Isn't it funny how I used to get sent to sit in you when I was in trouble, and all those times I climbed out your window in retaliation? Thanks for keeping my secrets, and thank you for remaining my sanctuary when I come home and visit. Please don't forget about me—I know I could never forget you.

Love, Your Now-Grown Child