“Mom, Look at Me!”: A 20-Year-Old’s Heartfelt Letter to Her Mom About Her First Solo International Trip Travel Notes Parenting

Dear Mom,

I’m about a month and a half into my 10 weeks abroad and look at me! So far so good. I’m interning and living on my own in Spain while also traveling around the country and even to another continent on weekends. This is not my first time traveling abroad without you and Dad, but it is my first time totally on my own without another family. This is all probably a little daunting for you (and it was for me at first too), but it is the learning opportunity of a lifetime and thanks to you, Mom, I am thriving. 

I may have limited space in my carry-on luggage, but I have plenty of room for everything that you taught me and for every tidbit that you knowingly or unknowingly hand me – whether it is a simple “have a great morning” text as I start my work day and you get ready for bed or a simple reassurance about some plan I have. Because of you (and Dad), I know how to carry myself in different situations and how to adapt and enjoy myself within a different culture and environment. 

Thank you for letting me go to a different country instead of spending the summer in the comfort of my own home with you. I may be across the globe, but you are always with me!

Love, Raquel

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