Dear Mom,

I couldn’t imagine life without your love, advice, and support. I’m so glad that God chose you to be my mom so that you could shape me into the person I am today. I probably don’t tell you enough, but thank you.

Thank you for always being there. From every dance rehearsal and recital to all my “nerd” events at school to comforting me when something's bothering me. You were always there to help me tighten my dancing bun, touch up my lipstick, and feed me between dances. You always cheered me on and praised me when I received awards for good grades and you still do. You always give me advice when something is on my mind and you always know how to calm me down and comfort me. Thank you Mom.

Thank you for teaching me how to be a lady. You taught me how to dress modestly and appropriately. You taught me how to paint my nails, do my makeup (even though the roles have now switched *insert winky face*), and fix my hair. You taught me to treat others the way I want to be treated. You taught me to think through situations before making an irrational decision that I could regret. You taught me to respect myself so that others will respect me. You showed me the ropes to becoming a good Catholic woman, wife, and mother. Thank you Mom.

Thank you for loving me. Your love is bulletproof. You have loved me through all of my terrible stages of attitude and sass. You love me even after I am rude and disrespectful to you. You have seen me at my absolute worst and your love still endures. You have loved me through 20 years and counting of eye rolling and talking back, so thank you Mom.

Thank you for giving me a good work ethic. You taught me to never quit or give up. When I discovered I actually hated gymnastics in the middle of a year and wanted to dance instead, you made me stick it out until the end of that year. You taught me that hard work pays off. Studying leads to good grades, walking around at home in pointe shoes helps you get up onto pointe, and practicing dances in the driveway helps you remember them like the back of your hand. You taught me to work for what is important to me. Thank you Mom.

Thank you for spoiling me. Our girl's days seriously always were the best and I still love them, although there are fewer now because life is so busy. Now, as we plan my wedding, you are so willing to help me find and get everything I dream of. You always make sure I have everything I need to succeed and be happy and healthy. Thank you Mom.

Thanking you for everything you do and are is so important to me, because as I get older I see how many people don’t have amazing mothers like the one I have. So once again, thank you Momma.

XOXO

Love, Your Baby Girl