Dear Mom

Dear Mom,

I know I don't tell you this often enough, but you are the most amazing woman I have ever met. You are patient, kind, charitable, sociable (when you want to be), longsuffering, humble, and an amazing maker-of-sandwiches-and-pasta-salads. I look at you most days, and I think, "Wow. She does so much for everyone. I wish I could do the things she does without hesitation." I think it's wonderful how you can give so much of yourself to the people you love, and to the people you know, and to the people you don't even know. That's a precious gift--to be able to love so much--and it's one I hope I learn one day.

I know that there are days that I drive you crazy. I know that, while I've never been a "rebellious teenager," there are many occasions that I am grumpy and sulky (like tonight, ha ha). But never let those grumpy, sulky days make you think that you are not my hero. I am so grateful for you, and your love, and your support. I am grateful for the times when I've had a rough day and you simply let me cry on your shoulder. I'm grateful for the countless pieces of advice I've received from you over the years. I'm grateful for every shared moment and for every long talk. I'm going to miss you, more than you can ever know, while I am at college (and the years after that), but not just because you cook, clean, and do the laundry (although I have to admit that I will miss that too). Don't worry too much though because I plan on calling you and writing to you every chance I get. Just because I'm moving back to Utah doesn't mean you're off the hook--you're still going to hear about every little "exciting" detail of college.

I love you so much, Mom. I hope you had an awesome Mother's Day!