I have to get this off of my chest. Mom, you were almost always right. Being away from home has taught me so much. Unfortunately, I could have learned all of the same things from you if I had just listened; instead, I learned it from experience. I guess this isn't a bad thing, because it's how I learn most things. But it would be really nice if I had taken your warnings about hanging with the wrong people, dating the wrong people, and keeping my things neat. Living by myself has shown me that being a responsible, grown woman is hard, and that my entire life, you've been preparing me for this.

I know we're no Rory and Lorelai. We still fight, and I can still be a brat and you can still be pretty harsh. But that's OK, and I think that's normal. I'm so sorry that for my teenage years. I acted like I knew better than you. You were right about my dress being too short, my friends who weren't really friends, and that my education is more important than my hair and makeup. Now, I'm always trying to get you to tell me things. In the past week, I can remember about five hundred questions I've asked you: How do I apply for health insurance? How do I fill out my student loan stuff? How can I fluff my pillows? What cut of meat should I buy? Why are people so annoying? Can you help me? What's your Netflix password?...and the list goes on. You never disappoint, either. Whenever I feel lost or unsure of what to do, you're always a phone call away. Despite the near heart attacks and headaches I must give you, you're always right there. It's pretty awesome.

Every day, I'm more aware of what an amazing mom you are. I struggle going to work on top of having to grocery shop, cook, and take care of all of my own chores. And yet you do it every day for an entire family, while I'm figuring out how to do it for just myself. You've been teaching me for years how to be a good wife and a good mom, and I barely even knew it. But now I try to remember the things you've done, so that I can emulate it.

You've put off a lot of your goals for your family, and so that we can accomplish our own goals. Thank you for that, Mom, I won't let your sacrifices go to waste. I'm so proud of the life you're creating for yourself while helping me create mine, and you always tell me you're proud of me, too. That means the world to me. The older I become, the more I realize that you're one of the best friends I've had.

Thank you, Mom. Thank you for loving me, and for teaching me independence, respect, and morals. Thank you for raising me to care about books and education and other people. Thank you for not spoiling me and for fighting for me. We're not a perfect mother-daughter duo, but I love you and I respect you just as you do me. You were always right.