Dear Mom,

Writing this letter was more challenging than I thought it would be. Today is a celebration of you, and you encompass so many great characteristics. First of all, your compassion is unwavering. From the moment I came into this world, you supported me through every possible obstacle. When coaches didn’t believe in me, you did. In the last four years I have had four surgeries, and each time you sat with me, fro-yo in hand. When I was diagnosed with epilepsy, you hunted down doctors, researched medicines and connected with other patients, helping me regain a feeling of normalcy. You are my rock.

Additionally, you have taught me numerous lessons, and so I want to take a moment to thank you. Thank you for showing me what it means to work hard; I am so proud to have you as a role model. Thank you for the never-ending sacrifices you continually make for our family; you always put the needs of others before your own. Thank you for always telling me when my actions are wrong or disrespectful. You hold me accountable, and I appreciate that. Finally, thank you for recognizing what a broken heart looks like and simply being there. I don’t know what I would do without you.

You have always taught us that the little things matter, and you are a living representation of that principle. Thank you for sending me to school each semester with a box of handwritten notes; I read them before every game. Thank you for the Law and Order SVU or Gilmore Girls marathons. Thank you for the long road trips; those are some of my fondest memories. Thank you for the perfectly-timed care packages of Georgetown Cupcakes, Twizzlers or black jelly beans. Thank you for filling our house with laughter. Most importantly, thank you for being Lorelai to my Rory.

Mom, you are my best friend. I hope you have a wonderful birthday, and I truly am sorry I couldn’t get you the world’s largest pizza. You spent the last 21 years inspiring me to be the best person I can be, telling me I can be anything I set my mind to. However, it seems only fitting to draw upon Gilmore Girls and say “I don’t think you’ve ever realized the person I most want to be is you.”

Happy Birthday!