She was the one person who took leaving for college harder than you did. She's the woman who raised you, loved you, and taught you so much of what you know.

Saying bye to you the first time before I got in that car to a word of opportunities was one of the hardest things I have ever had to do. I know that you are handling this in a much different way than I am. So mom, these are the things that I want you to know while I'm away at college.

1. Even though we don't talk every day, I cherish the days we do.

I either have been fried from too much homework or decided to take a nap that turned into a full on sleep. We both get really busy and I want you to know even when I don't talk to you one day, I am just thinking about all the thinks I'm going to tell you the next. And when we do talk, I absolutely love it. You're like a best friend that never judges me and encourages me to do my best.

2. You're the first person I think of when I get exciting news.

Made the Deans list? Got an A on my midterm? Whatever the good news may be you are the first person that pops into my mind. I know how happy you're going to be and I love hearing you say "I am so proud of you".

3. And even the not so exciting news...

Missed too many days of class? Got a message from my professor about my "less than perfect grade". You are always the first person on my mind. Although I am so scared you are going to be so disappointed, it always turns into you sympathizing with me and telling me I can do it. You encourage me even when I am doubting myself and I am so grateful for that.

4. I will be cranky, and sometimes I will take it out on you but...

That does NOT mean I love you any less. Sometimes the stress gets the best of me and you're sometimes going to be the person who gets caught in the fire. I just want you to know that even if I'm not acting like myself and I say stupid things, I am still your baby who loves you unconditionally and please don't ever take these things to heart. It will actually break mine to know I offended you in any way.

5. I respect everything you do for me.

Whether it be a care package, helping me out with paying for that book I was short for, or even just being my #1 fan, I respect everything you do for me. Everything you do brings me joy and reminds me of how special you are. I always think of how hard things would be without you always there when I need someone to catch me.

I LOVE YOU MOM!