A Letter To You, Mom:

Dear Mother,

I want to THANK YOU for all that you have done for me throughout my life. 

As a small child, you taught me to walk, talk, use a toilet (hehe)!  You later showed me how to bake, how to play teacher and show me how the little ways of the world worked.

As I grew into a young adult, you continuously taught me how to be a classy woman, to respect myself, all that it was to be a woman (wink, wink..which was not all butterflies and tulips!), how to take care of a family, how to stick up for myself.

As a teenager, you taught me to be strong when facing my challenges, to be independent, what it is to be a strong woman, to always be there for family, to help others, how to NEVER give up, to NEVER stop trying, to speak up for myself, to stand up for what I believe in.

As an adult, you taught me how to take care of my first born, the different methods to help your sick child, to help me through my struggles, my hard times; you are someone I was able to confide in, be my friend. 

As my child's grandmother, you taught me what it is to enjoy childhood again, to have fun, to play, to laugh, to discipline, to take care of sicknesses and booboos, and to spoil at times.

You have taught me SO much throughout the years and you continue to do so every day.

You have always been my rock.  I have struggled many times in my life, with you always being there to lift me up, support me, guide me.  I couldn't be the person I am without you.  You have made me the woman I am today... strong, determined, fair, kind, independent, strong-willed, and with the ability to stand my ground on what is just.  I will forever be grateful for your unwavering love and a true representation of what a woman should be.

One that never gives up.
One that is willing to do what it takes to make not only herself succeed
but her family, her child... her daughter.

When I was fighting to become the woman I was meant to be, you were by my side every step of the way... encouraging me to carry on, to fight for what I believe, to fight to live a wonderful life.  No words can express the gratitude and love I have for you, Mother.  I will just have to show you through my daughter, as I bestow the gifts of knowledge and guidance on to her.

Know that you have raised a daughter that will go on to making the world a better place, with everything I do, with every person I encounter, in how I raise my family, and in how I treat myself.

Thank you.

Happy Mother's Day, Mom!
And thank you... for everything.

-From Your Loving Daughter