“When your child leaves home it is a bittersweet time. A time full of joy, and excitement for everyone. Starting college is the beginning of their independent life. But as a mother, it is also a time of sadness. My time with my daughter in my home is over, it will never be the same again. I will miss her every day. I wanted to make something for my daughter to say goodbye. I wanted to put my feelings into something tangible for her, to share my feelings with her. I made this piece as a love letter to Violet. She is the love of my life. When I see her now and think of her leaving I can see all the little moments of our lives together flashing before my eyes, I look at her and see a beautiful young woman, but I can also see a little child. When I look into her eyes, I can still see my baby looking back at me.” – Melanie Acevedo