Dear Mom and Dad,

At this point in my life, I’m considered a grumpy teenager.  Yes, at times I know I act like one, but it’s just hormones, right?  As I am growing up, I am realizing how much you do or have done for me, and for all of this, I need to truly thank you.  When I think about all the wonderful features in life that God has given me, you always appear in my mind.  Thank you for what you have done to help me grow these past 15 years.

Mom, I know that when you were a teenager, you had a weak relationship with your mom.  You’ve always made it your goal to have a strong relationship with me, and I think we have one of the best relationships for a mother and teenage daughter.  I don’t think you know how much I truly appreciate you for keeping a strong relationship with me.  You are always there for me, no matter what the situation is.  I could be having trouble with my geography homework, or I could be having a conflict with another girl.  You give the best advice ever.  I remember in seventh grade there was this not-so, nice girl; let’s call her Alice.  Alice and I were at church one night, and she and some other girls were talking badly about one of my best friends; let’s call her Amy. 

They were talking about how Amy is so annoying, and I piped up and said, “Guys stop. She’s only annoying when you irritate her.”  Now it wasn’t right for me to say that, but the next day, Alice completely switched my words around and told Amy that I was the one who had called her annoying and said I was only pretending to be her friend.  I was devastated because Amy wouldn’t talk to me for days, and I never knew why.  Finally, Amy told me why, and I came home that night crying my eyes out.  You asked me what was wrong, and I said that something had happened with Amy.  I then explained the story: you comforted me and gave me some of the best advice I have ever received. 

I also love how you are going back to school to earn a degree for medical coding.  It has inspired me to strive for my goals and work as hard as I can to try and achieve them. 

Dad, I know that the past couple of months have been tough for you because Mom has been locked up in her craft room doing her school work, but I think you are doing great.  You haul Ty to church on Wednesdays, Summer to volleyball on Mondays and Wednesdays, and me to work on Saturdays, and I don’t think you know how much Mom appreciates all of your work—only a few more weeks until Mom’s on summer vacation, and we can all spend the weekends, in the summer, up at the camper.  The date, May 11, couldn’t arrive any faster! 
You have also been teaching me how to drive since February, and you’ve been so patient with me—when I drive like a grandma, or slam on the breaks. 

When I was younger, I always looked up to you because I thought you were the best swimmer ever.  Eventually, you taught me how to swim, and I wouldn’t stop until I learned.  Now, whenever we swim at a beach or a pool, you always call Summer and I your little fish because we are such natural swimmers.  You know that if my school had a swim team, Summer and I would definitely be on it because we love swimming so much.

I don’t know, if you two realize how much Zoey looks up to you as her own parents.  Sometimes, when she and I are talking, she will call you Mom or Dad!  Thank you for putting up with me when I’m hangry, hungry and angry, or when I am as moody as can be.  Thank you for listening to me rant, ramble, and just talk to you when I need it. Thank you for giving me the life every child deserves, and being such wonderful parents. When I have children, I want to be just like you.

I would be completely lost in this world without you.  I am whole-heartedly convinced that God knew exactly what he was doing when he chose you to be my parents.  I don’t think there are words to describe how much I love you. 

Love your little girl,

~Mackenzie Grace