To the person that raised me,

Before I start, I want to say thank you. Thank you for not leaving me behind like the other parent, and thank you for being my biggest supporter. Most of all, thank you for the love you have shown me throughout my life, through the ups and downs; through the failures and the successes. You have always been there for me and I will always be grateful for that. You knew that sometimes you were going to be considered "the bad guy" and had to make some unfavorable decisions, but thankfully you made those tough decisions and I'm now at an age where I'm beyond thankful. I didn't know it then, but now that I look back at some of the trips and activities I wanted to do and I'm glad you said no.

You have guided me through some tough life lessons, and if it wasn't for you, I don't know who I would be today; because you are the reason I am who I am today. No matter how many times I've been knocked down, you were always there to pick me up, dust off my shoulders, and make me feel better. We both know how many times you've had to repeat that process, and I'm so internally grateful that you were always there.

Even though we have our disagreements that can sometimes turn into arguments, I knew we would resolve the issue because we could never fight for very long. But we both know we don't always argue, we just don't agree on everything and that is perfectly okay. Some of the best memories in my life are things we've done either together or you've supported me on. The concerts we've gone to, the tattoos you've supported me getting, the career path I've chosen, you've supports me through it all. I'm so thankful for that.

Not only have you helped me through my tough moments in life, you've helped and supported me through my own big decisions. Like when I became a vegetarian, and even now that I'm trying to be vegan. You've supported me and given me suggestions to help maintain a healthy lifestyle while accommodating my new dietary lifestyle. You knew this might be slightly more costly in the end, but you knew that it's something I wanted to do and you've supported me every step of the way. Every craving, slip up, and crazy dinner idea I've had; you've supported me.

I could go on forever about the little things I'm grateful for, but I just thought I would say just a few of the many things we've accomplished together. I just wanted to tell you, the parent that raised me and stayed with me, how much I love you and how incredibly thankful I am that you were the one that raised me; I wouldn't want it any other way.

I love you and I am always appreciative of everything you've done and sacrificed for me.

Thank you for everything.