Dear Swaggawagon,

Where do I even begin. Maybe I'll start at the beginning of senior year where I started to get to know you guys a little bit better. The more we talked at break, the more I realized how dynamic this friend group was. There's so many different pieces to the puzzle that makes this friend group second to none.

For example, we have Melissa's sarcasm that keeps you quick on your toes. Your humor never fails to pull us out of whatever funk we may be going through and you're so easy to vent to. I know that whenever I'm upset or angry, you're there to listen. No matter how small or petty the situation is, you're there with open ears. I owe you big time for introducing me to a lot of really cool music and for being the concierge of the group, never letting us down with your never-ending list of delicious restaurants all over Charlotte. Seriously girl, you should write a blog. I promise I'll come see you in Colorado.

You can't forget about Cailin. You're a living, breathing, 5-Hour Energy mixed with the energy of a Jack Russell Terrier and your personality is so spunky and fresh; you're one of the most caring people I know. You're always there to turn that frown upside down. Most importantly, you're the owner of the actual swaggawagon. So many memories were made in that van. Whether it be late night cookout runs with the squad or ding dong ditching, whenever people see that van roll up, they know stuff is about to get real. Caitlin, you always have our backs.

Dearest Abigail. The fashionista of the group. You're a makeup guru. You always keep us on trend with the latest trends. We also grew closer over spring break and I'm so lucky to call you one of my friends. You're so selfless. You think and put others before yourself. You have such a big heart and you are so easy to talk to. Also, you're so strong and I don't think you get enough credit for how strong you are. You're always there to catch others when they fall and that's what a true friend entails.

Then there's Alyssa. Our friendship flourished in our Honors U.S. History class junior year. You have a very strong work ethic and everything you do, you do it with all you got. You are determined and it makes me want to do better. You were one of my first friends in Charlotte and I will never forget that. You were so easy to talk to and be myself around. I'm so grateful that our friendship has continued on past the walls of the classroom.

Then you have Alina. Sometimes you come off shy at first (or scary because you scared me at first), but you have one of the biggest hearts I know. You're well-rounded in the sense that you possesses intelligence, humor, beauty, and athletic ability. Whenever I hear an Adele song, I think of you, Alina. Your laugh only makes me laugh harder and you never fail to put a smile on my face. Endless amounts of thank you's for helping me through calculus. Couldn't have done it without you.

Sweet Caroline. While you find that song annoying, you truly are the sweetest person. You are so bubbly and upbeat with your bouncy curls. You wouldn't hurt a fly, but mess with one of your friends and I know you'd be by their side through it all. You, me, and Alyssa had history together and I will never forget how you guys made me feel welcome. You laughed at my lame jokes and it made me feel like I fit in. Your personality is so genuine. Don't be fooled by her petit stature, this girl is full of spunk and will always keep you on your toes.

And then you have Lindsay. The roasting machine. While sometimes you have a little big of a hard exterior, you're genuinely the nicest person. You have our backs no matter what and are ready to go to extremes to defend your friends. You are a true friend. You have a great sense of humor too. You'll lay on the floor crying of laughter with Lindsay by your side. You love the outdoors and are full of adventure. It's never a dull moment with Lindsay.

Ah and last but certainly not least, Natalie, also referred to Natty B Raps. Your dance moves never fail to impress me. We got especially close on our spring break trip, which was the best five days of my life. You included me from the beginning, and I will always remember that. You have a loving nature that makes everyone feel loved and welcomed. You're so approachable and easy to talk to. From the moment I met you, I felt like I could tell you my life story and trust you with every secret. You have a warm, loving nature that is hard to find these days. Never change, Natty B.

Like I said, each one of you guys provide a unique flavor in our swaggawagon. What I love most about this group is that while we may be scattered all over the country, we still talk everyday. Distance has nothing on us! We shared many memories (especially spring break) that I will cherish forever. I'm so incredibly blessed to know that you guys have my back no matter what. I love you guys forever and always.

XOXO,

Alyson (Scooter)