Dear Kid,

Thankfulness isn’t just for Thanksgiving.

Thankfulness is an all-the-time, equal opportunity kind of thing.

As you wind down your college career (gak!), I know you’re busy thinking about how to pack all your accumulations into a car (or two), where you left the can opener, how you’re going to find time to study for finals, and why someone decided that someone should take an exam starting at 4:40pm the day before graduation (ridiculous).

I also know suspect hope that you are able to spare at least one brain cell to think about all the wonderful things that have happened over the last five years.

The really good classes, the professors that went out of their way for you, the friends you’ve made, the meals you’ve shared, the study sessions, the competitions you’ve won…the list goes on and on. I know it hasn’t all been perfect. But there’s been a lot of good.

I’m grateful for all I’ve learned from you and for all the times we’ve talked, texted, and otherwise had time together. I’m grateful for the times you’ve invited us to visit. I’m grateful for all the good, the not so good, and in betweens you’ve shared with us. Mostly, I’m incredibly grateful you’re my kid.

Take a moment of gratitude to be thankful for all you’ve experienced.

Love, Mom