Hey Dad and Mom,

Remember when I first started playing sports? Getting furious during Tee-ball games because I was confused why the kids got to stay on base when I got them out? Or how about even when I was the smallest kid on the football field but was still pumping up the crowd like Brian Dawkins? Nothing beat the seasons of rec soccer when you volunteered to take the fine if I scored with a bicycle kick. Those teams probably... (definitely) hated us.

Screw it, though, that's how we have always been. I was taught to always carry the name on my back with pride. Maybe a little bit too much pride but we're Leith's and can't really help it. Probably the only family I know that gets aggressively competitive during Wii games.

But all the kidding aside, I really can't thank you guys enough. I'm not sure if you guys realize the everyday things you do that have made me who I am.

Dad, there is no doubt your insane work ethic not only shows in your success in life but also in the drive that you have instilled in me since I was young. You taught me to always be the hardest worker no matter what and how to never settle for less. Well maybe you didn't think that would lead to me going to Belgium and Cuba but you did always tell me to take opportunities.

Mom, you are nothing short of an angel. You've always been there for our random midnight talks when I can vent about anything and everything to you. Your ability to always be there and support me has been amazing through some of the crazy times in my life. It's your compassion that has pushed me to be more charitable and help whoever I can.

And no Matt I didn't forget about you. You've made me want to kill you at times and are most likely about 75% to blame for this scar on my eye (It is a sweet story, though). We use to bug each other all the time but as we've both gotten older our bond has definitely been showing much more. I tend to come at you sometimes about things you do but even being the little brother I want the best for you. Seeing you do so well lately has honestly made me even more proud of calling you, my big brother. I may say it to mom and dad all the time, but I love you bud and keep on being goofy you weirdo.

I have to stop before you guys all get too big-headed. But one more thank you whether it be for coming to my games or supporting me through my decisions and always having my back.

Love you guys.