What do I say to my best friends? The ones who have sacrificed so much for me and always surrounded me with an immeasurable cushion of love and support. You've been my rock to keep me grounded and my wings to let me soar. So what do I say to my best friends?

In all honesty, I have no idea. I've never in my life been without words and yet, you've left me speechless — you should be proud because that's a feat in itself! But how do I begin to show my gratitude for the infinite moments that you've so graciously given and continue to give? My answer? An attempt at a letter written in the duration of my heightened emotional state due to conflicting feelings about moving into college. Needless to say, this should be a fun read!

Even though I don't vocalize it enough, there isn't a second that goes by that I don't think about the two of you — your reaction to a seemingly mundane event, a particularly glowing pun opportunity, your smile of reassurance or comfort or genuine joy. You're so instilled in me that it's chilling, yet refreshing, that it feels as though you're there even when you physically are not. Most kids would rather be tortured than for their parents to be their Jiminy Cricket, but I thank the stars every day that I hear your voices in my head more than my own (usually because a quick-witted comment or reassuring joke ensues). You wonder where I get my stage and writing ability, but I assure you, the search would be over once you've taken a gander at your own reflections. I mean, sure I've studied the greats and taken note of the stars, but I've had two of the greatest role models standing beside me my entire life. I'm strong because you taught me how to be strong. I'm compassionate and empathetic because I've watched you be compassionate and empathetic. Determination, stubbornness, intelligence, ability to formulate a pun at lightning speed — it is all rooted in you. You inspire me every second to get up and make the day something of which I can be proud. You taught me that my dreams are not, in fact, out of my reach, they're just around the river bend. All I have to do is steer through the obstacles, paddle and let the water take me. And I've never doubted that you'll be there with every leap.

By the time you read this, I will have started this whole new strange and beautifully conflicting journey and I have a lurking suspicion that your prediction that it's all going to be okay will be coming true (and I will probably be calling you to have Daisy serenade me with her nightly snoring concerto). Even though it is difficult to be apart for these long stretches of time, we all grow in the process and I cannot wait to experience it all with you. Always remember, no matter what, I'll always be your little girl.