Taking on the task of raising children is hard when you have two people doing the job; but when you are on your own, times are often extremely difficult. Being a single mom isn't easy. Although I have not experienced being one, I have experienced living with one. You watch your mom take on the task of being two people in one body, mom and dad. So here is a letter to my mom, and dad.

First and foremost, I wanted to say thank you for everything. I know I don't show it, or even say it enough, but you are highly appreciated, I promise. Thank you for all the times that you've wanted to give up but chose not to. It's not easy being the cheerleader, provider, taxi driver, cook, and the list goes on.

Thank you for teaching me how to be independent. You are the most independent person that I have ever met, and it has taught me a thing or two. You busted your butt to get to where you are today. You set examples for me, showing me that I can do anything I set my mind to, literally.

Thank you for teaching me the meaning of being selfless. Your daily duties involved putting your kids first. It has taught me how to be selfless with others. I am able to address other people's needs before my own, and it's because of you.

Thank you for repeatedly giving me your last $10 so that I was able to go to the movies with my friends or grab something to eat. As a single parent, money definitely does not grow on trees. You worked so hard for what you had and regardless, even if it was all you had left, you still gave it to me.

Thank you for working those two jobs so that I always had a roof over my head and food in my belly.

Thank you for moving mountains so that I always had what I needed.

Thank you for doing everything you could to make sure that I had presents to open on Christmas and birthdays.

Thank you for going back to school full time so that you could provide a better future for yourself and your children. I know it wasn't easy, especially while raising kids, but you still did it.

Thank you for being my role model. I am proudly able to say that you are the person that has made me into who I am.

Lastly, thank you for being our backbone and support system; for never giving up and continuing to strive for better. Thank you for being the greatest role model anyone could ask for. I wouldn't be hardworking, ambitious, disciplined, and intelligent if it weren't for you. I wouldn't be me without you.

As I grow older, I realize how much I am like you and I've learned to appreciate it. You are one kick-ass mom, and dad.

Thank you.