Day 27: Write a letter to your parents

Dear Mom and Dad...

You guys are my role model. I look up to you guys.

You manage to have fun in life while dealing my brother and I. I know we drove you nuts. I know we are part of the cause for those gray hairs. But what I also know that you guys love us unconditionally. Just like we love you just as much as you do.

Dealing issues surrounding my brother is not easy, never was easy. I cannot imagine what it was like when you first found out that Monte is autistic. Back then, there were nearly no resources to educate and support you and Monte. Then you had to deal with a new baby (aka me) on the way. How could you deal with Monte and a new baby. You did a really good job, after all...  I grew up with a happy home.

 You managed pretty well when both of us, Monte and I, hit our puberty. Those wild mood swings that came with puberty, you dealt with us... patiently.

You have showed me so much what is in the world. You allowed and encouraged me to go explore the world. You took me on several road trips across the United States. You took me to camping in Adirondack Mountains that one summer. The most vivid memory I had from that trip was Dad teaching me how to focus on his precious film camera and I shot pictures of a black lab running and playing in the lake. Dad also pointed out a snake in the uprooted tree trunk and we all went up the mountain together. I remember long days we cooped up in the car on the road somewhere in the United States. They were probably best part of childhood summers.

I learned so much from you guys. I learned how to be patient, to be humble, to have a sense of humor, to keep trying and don't give up when things get hard. Most of all, you guys taught me that even when we argue - always apologize and make up after the argument because it is not worth it to stay angry forever.

Although I live far now, and I have a place of my own to call home... You guys are always my home.

Love you,

Danica