TRACEY LLOYD, Kennewick

My dad passed away in 2004, and since then, I have gotten to know who my mom is. There are times when I don't feel worthy of being her daughter.

I wanted to write this letter for a long time, and I thought Christmastime would be best.

My mom did not have a good childhood or great parents. Her mom left when she was 13. By all rights, my mom should have been a terrible mother because she did not have a role model.

My mom has told me many times that all she knew is what not to do. She made a vow that she would never raise her kids the way she was raised. Thank God for that.

When I think of how cruel life can be, I remember what my mom went through and life doesn't seem so bad.

At least I am loved, my daughter is loved, even my pets are loved by "gramma." I would give anything in the world to see my mom happy like she was when my dad was alive.

I hope you know, mom, that I would be lost without you -- my best friend, my best cheerleader and my best mom. Thank you for never giving up on me.

Thank you for loving me the way you do.

Merry Christmas.