Dear Momma,

I love you! I couldn't ask for a better mom. Money doesn't grow on trees, but I know I ask for money a lot. You've always provided for me and what you couldn't God did. I forget about a lot the things you've done for me. You've given me more than I could've ever wanted or needed. You taught me about Jesus and how to be a loving person. You've supported all of my dreams and aspirations. I'm blessed beyond belief. God created the very best Momma for me. You have taught me to do the right thing and always love God and love others.

As much as I hate to admit it, I've grown to be a lot like you. Scary thought, I know. But I wouldn't want to be like anyone else. You're my role model. I sing all the time like you (even though I do not have a singing talent), I dance goofy when I hear music in the store, I worry and stress too much like you do, and I'm sassy like you. I want to create a loving home for my future family like you tried to do for me.

Most of my life, it's been me and you versus the world. Well, we conquered it! I graduated high school, I'm in college, and I even have a boyfriend that you approve of. At least I think you approve of him. You've shaped me into the person I am today and I hope I've made you just a little bit proud. I want you to know that I'm so thankful for all the things you've ever done for me.

You're the best cook I know. I still call dibs on the gumbo pot when you die. I will be very upset that you're gone, though. Gumbo, trash (Chex Mix), jambalaya, king ranch chicken, and chicken spaghetti will always remind me of you because you make those better than anyone else. I hope to be that good of a cook in the future for me to cook for my kids.

Only you could use weed killer and turn it into miracle grow. Or get into the wrong vehicle at the parking lot. Or get into the wrong vehicle again. You taught me how to make genuine memories. You gave me traditions I want to continue with my future family. We make Jesus a birthday cake on Christmas, watch Sound of Music on Christmas Eve, buy a new dress every Easter, and stop at every Starbucks we see. Every day, you tell me "Remember who you belong to," even now that I'm away at college.

From band trips, college, vacations, random injuries, braces and spontaneous trips to Branson, you've supported me financially, morally, and physically. I know I don't express my gratitude enough, but I hope this letter shows you how thankful I truly am to have a mother as wonderful as you.

I hope to be as good of a mom as you are some day. I love you so much. Thanks for being you.

Love,

Emily

aka Nanny/Emmy/MeMe/Elvira