Dear Danya

Dearest Danya,

What a year we've had. It's been an absolutely amazing experience!

This year I have seen you blossom into an exquisite young woman. You have grown so much in so many ways. Physically, you are now almost as tall as I am, but mentally and emotionally you are bigger than us all. Educationally, you continue to grow and learn and you always seem to enjoy gaining new knowledge. Just within the first month of school your Danish improved immensely and you are now fluent. I feel so proud watching you read all types of Danish books on your own. I find myself having amazing conversations with you and I am always learning something new from you.
 

You have made some great new friends this year, and I know that you are very sad to leave them. They are very supportive of you and accepted you into their lives straight away. As a mother it is touching to have your friends come to me, with tears in their eyes, expressing how sad they are to see you leave. Your friends really care about you.
Leaving friends isn't easy, but taking the time to nurture a friendship is worth every ounce of effort. Don't let your location determine the strength of your bond. If your friendship is meaningful then it will keep growing even if you are an ocean apart. I know you have made a goal to stay in touch with your friends by Instagram, Snapchat and Skype. If keeping up with your friends become a routine, your friendship will continue to thrive.

As your mom I will always be there for you. You are so precious to me. Nothing compares to the joy and happiness that you spread in my life. I know you feel sad that your year here in Denmark is coming to an end, but don't worry, the best is yet to come! And I know that no matter where life’s path takes you, you will succeed. Every day I am proud of the person you are becoming and I know you will make a difference in this world.
Think of yourself as timeless, precious and priceless. Every day when you walk out into a new day remember that you are treasured beyond anything you could possibly imagine. There isn’t anything that you could ever do that would sacrifice the love that I have for you.

Danya, don't be afraid to continue to spread your wings and fly. Follow your passion as nothing will give you more pleasure and satisfaction in life than doing something that gives you happiness. Have the courage to live your dream. I think that this year has shown you that the unknown of following your dream may spark a little fear, but it is okay. Even if you do not succeed at first, you will be happy knowing the fact that at least you tried and that you gave it your best shot. When you get back home make sure to take a break from your busy life, look back and relive the many moments, here in Denmark, that gave you so much happiness.

This is a time in your life to look both inside yourself and forward to what may be. In whatever you choose I know you will do your best and will continue to grow along the way.

You are, and will continue to be, a person who will make things better and brighter and you make me very proud.

I love you!
Mor