Dear Mom and Dad,

Thank you for driving the 14 hours (give or take) to bring me back to school. I know it is not easy to get off work and rearranging your schedule is a hassle. Thank you for the countless hours spent in Target and Bed, Bath, and Beyond buying supplies so I would have everything I needed. I (mostly) enjoyed the quality time I got to spend with you guys. I enjoyed finding new restaurants to eat at even though they served banana splits with peanut butter which we decided was gross. I wouldn't trade any minute of the drive to school for anything else. I even enjoyed driving the truck and having my hair brushed at the same time.

Thank you for taking the time out of your day to take my friends and I all out to dinner. We enjoyed every minute of it and I hope you like my friends. Thank you for stopping to get us cupcakes and dropping them off to me at work on my first day.

Most importantly, thank you for raising me so well. I am a strong, independent, and successful young woman thus far. In your own ways you both taught me the ropes that I would need to navigate myself through life. You raised me to believe in myself and stand my ground. Sometimes that has included standing on my own or fighting for my spot to stand. You taught me to be brave and adventurous but you also taught me to be careful and watchful. I learned to have the backs of the those that I love. But I also learned that sometimes it is necessary to watch out for those that you do not know. Kindness is powerful and it goes a long way.

Who knew that at the age of 18 I would up and move across the country? Surely, you did not think that when you first brought me into this world. I can't imagine what you feel when you're at home and I'm not there for ten months out of the year. I thank you for letting me do this. Going to Marymount has been the best decision I have ever made in my life. I have been blessed with a phenomenal education experience. I also have found the greatest friends I could ever ask for. Thank you for believing in me and teaching me to believe in myself. I could not and would not be the girl I am and hope to become if it wasn't for you!

I hope you have a wonderful trip back home. See you soon!

Love,

Kylie