Some people are lucky enough to find their person or their best friend early in life.

I was one of the lucky ones.

My person lived right next door and we did everything together growing up—I mean everything! We had a ladder on the fence connecting our backyards, so it was easy to get back and forth to each other's houses.

We explored the neighborhood together and made up names for our “secret” hideouts that weren’t so secret. We talked about the cute neighborhood boys together, thinking we had a chance despite the age gap.

We watched movies that scared us to death. We decorated Christmas cookies together. We went for night swims in the pool. We went to family events together. We laughed til we cried and we fought like sisters.

Going a day without seeing each other was rare. Our families were practically one big family.

Until our lives changed forever, when my person had to move to a different state.

We didn’t realize how great we had it until we didn’t have it anymore. I cherish the moments we had growing up next to each other, but I can't help but wish I had cherished it a little more.

I look back on days we fought over something silly and wonder why we wasted such precious time being upset with each other.

Many friendships have not had to endure what we have. From living right next door to living 600 miles away, we have continued to be best friends.

It isn't always easy, but it's definitely worth it.

The distance between us has proven that our friendship is strong and I know we can get through anything. While you may not be physically in my everyday life, you are forever in my heart. Every time we see each other, it’s like no time has passed, and that is so special to me.

We may not get to talk everyday because we both live incredibly busy lives, but you will forever be my go-to for an outfit choice, a boy problem, what kind of coffee I should order, which picture I should post on social media, and every other time I am being decisive (which is a lot.)

We see the good in each other that we sometimes cannot see in ourselves. Our friendship continues to have value even when we go days without talking because we both know that at the end of the day, we will always have each other.

You are and always will be my person. It’s hard to express how grateful I am for you, Bri. I know I don’t tell you enough, but I appreciate the heck out of you and it may sound cliche but I know someday you will be my maid of honor and the godmother of my children.

I am counting down the days until we get to spend all summer together (it is definitely going to be the best one yet!). Thanks for continuing to be my person despite the miles and loving me unconditionally.

I love you always!