As we all grow up we try to gain our independence. The phone calls to mom get shorter. The night time stories just up and disappear. Even the family meals go away after a while because you are so busy with everything else in your crazy busy life. We all get to this point and as teenagers, we all think that it is just what happens as we get older. Little do we know how much we are hurting the woman who helped us become who we are today. She smiles as she sees us grow up and do so much more with our lives, but she misses her baby that used to give her a hug every day as she came in the door. So to my wonderful mother, even though I don't say these every day, here's some things I want you to always remember.

1. I am so thankful for everything you do.

I know I don't say it every time you do something for me, because if that were the case I would never stop saying it! You do so much for me and for this family, and without you, we would be lost. I could never have become the way I am if I didn't have you to teach me how to do all that you do and more.

2. I appreciate the texts I get from you

The texts telling me to have a great day, and the I love you texts absolutely make my day! It warms my heart to know that even the middle of your crazy amount of work you still think about all of your children. Even the lame jokes or silly little things you find on Facebook make my day 1000 times better.

3. I will forever be your little girl.

No matter how old I get, how many people I meet, or where I go I will always be your little girl. I know that it scares you that I go off to college soon, and that I am growing up, but it won't change that I will always be your baby girl. No matter what, you are stuck with me as your kiddo :)

4. I love you

No matter if we get into a fight, have a problem, or are so upset we cry, I love you. I have from the moment I was brought into this world and I will love you for eternity. I couldn't ask for a better mother to help me through this crazy journey called life.

Thank you for everything mommy. I am so lucky to have you as my mom.

Love,

your little girl.