To the people that treat me like their own daughter,

Thank you for being willing to keep me in your thoughts and and prayers. You're kindness makes me realize I have a family away from home. The homesickness goes away and I feel as if I have another set of people to make proud. You ask me how my week has been and you offer me hugs and smiles. Whenever I am sad and broken you give me a smile and tell me things will get better.

You're the reason my parents are not as frantic because I talk about you so highly. They realize I have another set of guardian angels looking out for me and they send all of their gratitude. All of us realize that you didn't have to care but something inside you caused you to.

I know you expect nothing but the best out of me and I expect to give you the same. I do for my own parents, why not you too? My schoolwork interests you and every mother's and father's day I can add you to my list of people to be thankful for.

Thank you for making the transition of college and being away from home easier. Sometimes we all feel alone and small and scared and knowing you care makes all of those feelings go away, even if it's only for a few moments. You tell me stories of your own family that make me laugh and I can completely relate.

Even though I am not your daughter, I feel as if I am. I love my family and somehow you have become family to me.

I cannot express my gratitude toward you. Thank you for showering me with smiles and love a child needs.

Thank you,

A girl who loves her family.