Dear Mom and Dad,

Since it is parents weekend here at Appalachian State University I thought I would dedicate my article this week to the both of you because you guys rock my world. First of all, I want to thank you guys for always talking to me on the phone when I am hustling to each class or making my long journey back to my dorm. Those phone conversations have saved me from awkward conversations with people who try to get me to buy something, vote for them, or normal conversations I just do not have time for at that particular moment. Also, thank you for constantly checking up on me when I am sick at school, which is literally at least once a month. Being away from you guys is the hardest thing when I am sick. You both just have that special touch to cure me. Basically just thank you for existing in my life because I would probably be going no where in life without the two of you. I am working hard here at school to make you guys proud of me and show you both that ya raised a winner!

Mom, thank you so much for coming up here this weekend and helping me get my life on track. I am very excited to look at apartments with you and do big girl things. You honestly are the greatest mom on the face of this earth, and I wouldn't be the young lady I am today without you. I know life can become stressful sometimes for both of us, but I am glad we have one another to call when times get tough. You will always be my support system, and I will always be your shoulder to lean on. I am glad to have had such a wonderful mom growing up, and I am happy to say our relationship has blossomed into a beautiful friendship. Dad even tells me now that I look more like you each day that passes, which is the biggest compliment because you are beautiful. Thank you for always listening to my complaints on the phone after a long day and helping me get through any obstacles that are placed in my way. You're incredible and I love you very much.

Dad, you are the man. I am so serious when I say that we have the best daddy,-daughter relationship to ever exist. I could say nothing, and you would know what I am thinking, which is freaky and almost telepathic like. You're more like a twin that is 36 years older than me. I cannot tell you how much I appreciate your daily advice whenever I am in a difficult situation, and I know you think I am not listening when you ramble, but I hear every word. I like it when you ramble because I can tell you care that much. I would be concerned if you did not have your rambling talks because then you would not be the same man I look up to and admire. Also, thank you for letting me have basically a million pets (only two dogs) in your house when you aren't even that crazy about animals. Thank you for respecting my need and love for dogs, but I promise I won't push anymore on you...for now. You have grown to be one of my best friends in life, and I could never take our relationship for granted. I love you so very much.

As you can tell, you guys mean the absolute world to me. Even though we all don't live together and we have hit a couple bumps in the road along the way, I would not change anything about our family. I love you both unconditionally and deeply, and thank you for always loving me the same. Happy Parents Weekend!

With Love Always,

Olivia Hildreth