My advice to new parents always includes a statement that parenting is the most challenging but most rewarding job in the world. Constantly worrying, protecting, teaching, and analyzing the choices you make as a parent to raise your child to have the best possible opportunities in life. We learn along the way, there is no answer book or perfect way to raise your child, you just know to do your absolute best. But you, Taryn, my dear, have grown into the most amazing young lady I could have ever dreamed of, and you did it by the choices you made along the way.

You are truly the most patient person and have the kindest soul of anyone I have ever met. Maybe all those years of being shy and observing others helped you understand how to be the best person possible. Even from a little girl, your temperament has always been calm and understanding of others. As you have gotten older, this silly and funny sarcastic side has emerged and it has been nothing short of incredible to see you open up.

This past year I have seen so much growth in your confidence, leadership, and preparedness to take on the next chapter in life. During our last college visit, as Dad and I just sat back and observed, you took the lead to talk to staff and other students with no fear, which may have seemed like something minor to you, but gave us comfort that you are officially an adult and our job as parents is not over, but our roles will be changing sooner than we may have realized.

Moving over 1,200 miles away will no doubt be tough, but I know will help with opportunities, development, and experience you may have otherwise not had. I am so incredibly proud of you and cannot wait to see what the future holds for you. I love you so much. Thank you for blessing me with the gift of being your mother.

Love you Bear,
Mom