Hey, mom! By the time you see this we'll be causing shenanigans together, but I have some things you without a doubt deserve to hear. You raised us in a home of honesty, so here we go!:

1.) You are incredibly witty.

There's not a doubt in my mind that you're going to flip your hair and say, "I know," when you read this, but it's not without reason. Even on the days where you see my eyes are rolling with no breaks in between, I still find myself giggling when I'm out of sight. You've taught me so much about laughing through life's twists and turns.

2.) You are strong.

You've pushed through more nightmares that became reality than any person I've met. A lot of ugly situations pop up yet those are the days where you still put a smile on your face despite everyone making you want to rip out your hair. I don't know how you do it, but I'm glad you keep fighting.

3.) Your perseverance inspires me.

Mom, you give me wings. For as long as I can remember, you have always been the person that showed me what loving without ceasing looks like. You've shown me that when the going gets tough, you pull back your hair and ask life, "Is that all you've got?" And proceed to fight for what you believe in. I commend you for staying calm when it would feel a whole lot easier to scream.

4.) You're loved.

Looking back, I feel so blessed to have been raised in the household I was. Raising three kids is no walk in the park, but we wouldn't exchange you for a million dollars. You have friends that get excited when you come around, and there are even strangers that have been changed by your presence. You're a tough cookie, but you've got a soft heart that makes the world go 'round.

5.) You're a good cook.

I bet you didn't see this one coming! Upon moving to college, I've become a frequent shopper at the "home-cooked meal" tab on Pinterest. None of the recipes turn out like anything you've made (especially the Chicken for Company), but it's always just enough to push through until the next visit. What's for dinner?

6.) Hearing you laugh makes my heart smile.

I'm not ever sure if I should be afraid or laughing with you, but when I hear your cackle from a mile away, I know you're making an adventure for yourself. You've taught me that you're not grown-up until you give up on making life happy and fun. Your outlook on life is neat, and I know that when you come laughing, everyone leaves laughing, too.

7.) You are compassionate.

This falls back a little on the strong segment, but it's all true. Life is filled to the brim with surprises and you've taught us that the best thing we can do is be kind and loving to everyone. When you were told to love your neighbors and your enemies, you didn't set a divide and ask why; you put a smile on your face and reached out. You've changed so many lives and I feel lucky to be a part of your journey.

8.) You've got great taste in music.

Aside from when you crank up Milli Vanilli (I know, and I'm kind of sorry for that disagreement), you are one of the best DJs I've ever met. Whether we're chilling on the screen porch or cruising around, I know that you've got the perfect playlist for every occasion. It's a weird superpower.

9.) You do, indeed, have rock solid fashion advice.

Maybe it's because clothing expertise is a family trade now. Maybe it's because of all of the pop culture you make sure you keep up with. Either way, though you may think it pains me to admit it, you know how to dress a person for any occasion. Don't let your ego get too grand, though!

10.) Your devotion to your faith moves mountains.

When life drops a freight train full of lemons on you, I don't think it's possible to make all that lemonade without blind faith and prayer. You pray for anything and everyone, and you remind me everyday to give up my worries and fears. We're not perfect people. You know that there's a time for everything, and you don't let the seasons of waiting and "no" responses sway you.

11.) You can accomplish anything.

Growing up, I'd want to be a zoologist one day and a doctor the next. I still sway like that, but you never tell me that I can't do something. You push me to shoot for the stars and never settle, and I know for a fact that's because I came from a dreamer like you. The coolest part about you is the fact that you, yourself, chase after what you want to pursue. Whether it's law school, a bakery, crafts, or school board, you never let yourself slow down until you know you've done the best that you can for the people that you care about.

12.) You were right about all of the little things throughout the years.

Another portion to catch you off guard, huh? We're strangely similar and polar opposites simultaneously. You've wanted nothing but the best for all of us, and you're the first person to put your kids back where they need to be. There are times where it may concern you to let us learn a lesson on our own, (and I know that for a fact because I've been your biggest battlefield from time to time) but you say a prayer and push us forward. I may not come to the conclusion as fast as you'd like or in the manner you were hoping for, but you love me regardless.

13.) You're my motivation.

Ships don't sail across the sea without having a home port for their return. Growing into the "adult" I'm supposed to be has handed out a lot of dishes that are hard to devour. When I'm having a day that's left full of wallowing in self-pity, you push me to try something new. You always remind me that there are people and animals that need some loving, sights to see, and adventures to be had, and you get me moving. I know I can rely on you for anything, and there's an immense amount of comfort to be found in that.

14.) You. Are. Crazy.

This one will make you laugh, but we know it's true. There is no person more fearless and borderline insane quite like you. In truth, all of the best people are a dash of crazed.

You are my best friend.

I may be your child, but every day we grow together and change for the good. You are the person I can always count on when I fly too high or can't catch wind. I hope I can be half the woman you are, and I hope you find everything you want in life and more. Thank you for loving me regardless of my sassy self.

I love you to infinity and beyond,

Gus