Dear Mom,

Thank you for everything. I know how much you've given up for me, and I appreciate it all.

I know I haven't always been the easiest child to raise, but I've always known you'll be by my side no matter what life throws at us. You're the one who made me who I am: a strong, smart, empathetic woman, mostly just a reflection of you.

You did it all on your own. You never let the lack of another parent make me feel like I was missing out. You give me the love of way more than two parents.

Mom, you're my best friend. You're the first one I want to share my joys with, my challenges, my fears, because I know each one I have, you take on as your own. We're problem solvers together. Between the two of us, the dynamic duo we are, we can do anything. I wouldn't be able to do any of it without you.

I've always been a little different, a little more out there, and you've always embraced it. When I wanted to be a princess, you made me feel like it. When I wanted to be a moody teenager, you let it happen. When all I wanted was to eat carbs to make myself feel better, I knew I'd always have someone to share them with.

As you move out of our house and into a new one, I'm not sad at all, because I know that home isn't a house, it's wherever you are.

We've been world travelers together. We've tried new foods we couldn't pronounce and found out that whiskey, oats, raspberries and cream was not the best combination. There are very few things we haven't done together, and even fewer that I'd want to try without you.

I know it's probably not easy letting me travel to another continent this winter. South Africa is so far away after all. But you know I'm independent and full of wanderlust, so you're putting up with it (even though I know you'll have a few worries). I promise to bring you back the best treats the country has to offer.

Someday, when I have my own kids, I hope I will be as good a mother to them as you have been to me. I'm so lucky to have you in my life.

You're my absolute favorite person. I love you, Mom.

Love,

Laura