Dear Mom and Dad,

Hi, it's me, your college student, away at school learning the very best I can.

I just wanted to drop this here and let you know I still love you very much. You may not receive enough (or maybe you receive too many) calls from me, but that's because I'm learning to deal with being a "grown up," which isn't always fun and it sometimes leaves me going through the day fighting tears or constantly thinking about my to-do list. It's not because I don't love you, it's not because I forget about you, so please, don't think that way. I love every chance I get to call or talk to you and I'm sorry if it's not enough (or too much).

How can I forget your cooking? The food here is...odd for the lack of a better term. How could I forget the laundry you did for me? Now it costs and that's no fun. How can I forget your small reminders to help me remember the little things? Now I seem to forget or get close to forgetting what I need to and should remember to do. How can I forget your hugs? Because sometimes no other hug can do but yours. Your role as a parent isn't easily forgotten, quite the opposite actually.

Now that I'm here at college, it's nice to come home to you. I appreciate just being home and destressing from school. I love just being in your presence. I know other people want my attention when I go home, but you're who I always want to see first. I also love the things you do for me when I do come home. The laundry, the snacks, the shopping, the extra spending money, and did I mention the food? I appreciate it so so so much. Being home is relaxing and being able to do nothing is glorious, please don't think I'm bored or upset. I don't mind going out or doing fun things with you, but if there are no plans, I'm more than happy to watch Netflix all day in my pajamas. As I stated before, it's really nice just to be with you.

Now that I'm away, I still know you care. I don't feel forgotten or left out. I know you have fun things you get to do, and I'm having fun here too. That's what happens when I'm busy getting all educated. It's a part of life! It's not always fair. But that's ok because I have you. You taught me those important lessons about life and all of the fun it brings.

You will always be my parents. I will always love you. I'm here today because of YOU. You had me, you helped me, you supported me, you raised me, and you taught me.

Thank you, Mom and Dad. Thank you for everything. I love you.

Love,

Your College Student