"There are friendships imprinted in our hearts that will never be diminished by time or distance."

I constantly hear other people talking about how distance has ruined countless relationships for them and I am so thankful that I can't relate. The statement "Distance makes the heart grow fonder" is something I have experienced first hand from living away from my family and friends.

At one point in time, we all lived in the same place and spent just about every waking moment together. From growing up, getting each other through the many "firsts of life", helping each other pass classes, encouraging each other to go the extra mile for our dreams, traveling and experiencing new opportunities together, being each others biggest fans, and loving each other without question; there is nothing in this world I appreciate more than being blessed with them. But sometimes, life happens, situations change, and you just have to learn to roll with the punches. Prior to my departure, I was so anxious to see what the future would hold for our relationships. However, I learned quickly that distance made us stronger than ever.

While there may be miles and miles between us, they're always the first to pick up the phone when I need them. We still talk to each other regularly, call each other to inform each other what's going on in our lives, and plan weekend trips to see one another as often as possible. The best part is, no matter how busy life gets, we always make time for one another. We have been there to pick each other up at our lowest points, obnoxiously celebrate one another's biggest accomplishments, and love each other regardless of the situation.

They're the type of people who are here for a lifetime. The people I can promise will ALWAYS be there, no matter how much time has passed, where we are in the world, or what's going on in our lives. We will always be able to count on each other. Having relationships like this are rare, especially with the circumstances, but I have been incredibly blessed with such wonderful people. No matter where life takes us, remember that home is whenever were together. Whether it be a phone call, a hand written letter, or a physical visit; home isn't a destination but a mindset. Thank you for being my home.

Endless love.