A Letter to my Momma

Dear Momma,

I didn't realize that college would make me appreciate you more, but it has. Like a lot. I didn't realize that I would miss hearing the "Garage Interior Door Open" every day around 4:30 and excitedly getting to tell you everything about my day. I didn't realize that I would miss asking you "What's for dinner?" every night when you got home and you sarcastically answered that that is all I ever ask you. I didn't realize how much I would miss sitting in your floor with Winnie while we chatted about anything and everything. Seeing you last weekend made me realize just how grateful I am for you and the love that you show me. I'm thankful that you bought me groceries because eating in the caf every night is just not ideal and they don't always have the best food. I'm thankful that I just got to talk to you about all the details of my busy life and to hear things about people from back home that I don't get to see very often.  I'm so thankful that despite your bum back, you drove over 2 hours to come and hang out with me for a few hours, just to turn around and drive back home in the same night. 

I think I've always known it, but moving away from you made me realize that you always have been and always will be my best friend. Your compassion and generosity are unending and you never cease to amaze me with how strong you are. Whether it's working with your kiddos at school day and running your home kiddos around or working around the house all day, making lesson plans, and cooking, you always put others before yourself and especially your babies (that aren't necessarily babies anymore.) Your hugs and kind words are what make my heart whole when I'm down and you have pushed me through so many obstacles along my journey. Without you encouraging me to be the best me there is, I probably would have given up on so many activities and opportunities. Often times, you give me and A everything you have and more and I can't be more thankful for that. You are humble yet strong-willed, firm but forgiving, and most importantly, you are beautiful and so very loving. Thank you for all of the lessons you have taught me so far and I'm grateful to know that you are just a text or phone call away when I need a recipe, a cure, or advice. 

I love you so very much Mom. 

      I'll love you forever, I'll like you for always. As long as I'm living, your baby I'll be.  ~E