This time of year makes everyone seem a bit more sentimental, we just sat around a table to give thanks, we are about to sip on some hot cocoa and sing along to our favorite Christmas carols, and soon after that we will be ringing in a new year. I have done a lot with the last twelve months and I wanted to end it off with something that actually meant something more than my academics, career, and personal goals.

When I sat down at my laptop to write this I knew exactly what I wanted to say but I couldn’t find the perfect words. At last, this is my attempt even though I know it won't do them justice. To my biggest inspirations, my support system, the people who have made me into the person I am today, my parents. Thank you.

I know everyone says that their parents are the best, and they probably are right but I’m not sure they quite match up to the two of you. From giving my sister and I the best childhood, to supporting us in our adulthood. I would not be the person I am today without having the two of you by my side every step of the way.

It might seem obvious that a parent would do anything for their children but somehow the two of you always seem to be giving a little extra. You may not know it but I base the decisions I make off of how proud it would make the two of you. From learning how to dress for an interview from you mom, or knowing how to take care of a plant from you dad. It may seem silly to be thankful for what can be considered such mundane tasks but to me, they are small representations of my parents.

To my version of Lorelai Gilmore, the person I share a sense of humor with, the world's best “rockler”, and ultimately the world's most giving woman, I love you bunches. I will forever be thankful for you teaching me how to cook, braid my hair (even though you taught me like a lefty) and reminding me that I don’t have to always be tough, that it’s okay to cry after a hard day. The days we spend binge watching our favorite tv shows while eating potstickers will always be something I look forward to.

To the guy who gave me his feet, nose, and endless encouragement, as cheesy as it sounds, you will forever be the first man I loved. You taught me to always do what makes me happy, whether it be flipping burgers or running an emperor. As a kid I looked forward to the days you would pick me up from school so I could show you my spelling test. Now I look forward to coming home to tell you about everything I’m working on. Having you tell me you're proud of me is what keeps me working so hard. You will always be the person I love standing outside in the rain with while splashing our feet in the forming puddles. I love you more than all the stars in the sky.

I am so lucky to have both of you as parents. I know that I can always come running to you no matter what it is about. Thank you for giving me a life full of opportunities and supporting me in every decision I make, even when it’s me change my major for the ninth time. I love the crazy family you gave to me and I wouldn't trade it for anything in the world.