This is for my childhood friend that lived a couple houses from me and has always been one of my best friends even though she moved away almost eleven years ago (wow, I feel ancient). Like most of us, I would much rather have my best friend here with me doing the normal daily routines of a best friend, but there are some perks to having a long distance friend like her.

1. The meet and greet

When you finally see them again after months on end, it makes the meet and greet that much sweeter. Sometimes they will even surprise you in an airport and tell you that they are coming to New York for your sweet sixteen (yes, that did happen).

2. They can really tell you the truth

They give you non-biased advice when you are in a tiff with somebody (they often give better advice than your mom).

3. Celebrating holidays together

Sometimes you get to celebrate some holidays with their family. It’s a plus if their family is basically your second family. Thanksgiving with your best friend is probably the best thing you could ever have.

4. They are on speed dial

No matter how horrible a situation is and you have no one to turn to, you always have a friend on your side only a phone call away. FaceTime is a gift from God himself.

5. Not only is a Saturday sleepover is possible but way more than that

Visiting your best friend is also a plus. You get to experience new adventures and also have a week sleepover together. Yes, mom, we will go to bed at twelve...

6. Taking them to new places or favorite places

When they visit you, you can take them to your favorite spots for coffee or shopping. I have yet to tell my best friend our favorite coffee and crepe place has closed down. I’m already not looking forward to seeing her sad face so shh… don’t mention it.

7. Getting to talk it out with them

They are willing to let you vent on the phone to them about life, boys, and other friends when everyone else is sick of you talking about it. It is probably the first they hear about it so they are fully interested and they practically hug you through the phone. I've called my best friend crying and just hearing her soft voice helps calm me down.

8. You always have a mamma bear

I don't know about you, but my best friend is basically a mamma bear to me. She protects me and never fails to give me advice. Whenever I'm having problems, mainly with boys, she is on the other end of the phone ready to throw a punch-- even though watching her fight would probably be like watching Olaf from Frozen trying to have a throw down...it wouldn't work and it wouldn't be pretty either.

9. Did I tell you about this guy yet?

It's really fun sharing about your relationship situations because they are far away and don't really know the guys you have met. They make you feel better when you completely screw up with the guy you like or you just share hilarious stories of awkward encounters with boys. We basically laugh until we manage to either cry or pee our pants.

10. Growing into different people

Sometimes both of you will grow in different ways, but it's a beautiful thing to see your personalities growing. You both manage to have the same friendship even if you are different individually. And don't worry, we are both dessert people.

11. They will always always be there for you

No matter if you are in a fight or haven't spoken in weeks, they will always be there because they know you are human and stupid. Friends tend to come and go, but long distance friendships have a way of being part of your life forever. In the wise words of Grey's Anatomy, they tend to be "your person."

Near or far, I love her more than anything. There are always positive aspects in a negative situation. This is for dedicated for my loving friend, Tori Bruhn.