To the gals I met in first grade,

It's unbelievable to think that we've been friends since first grade. I have known you two for over half my lifetime. To me, that's a damn long time. Little did I know that I would be partners in crime with you two for that long. Where does the time go?

In elementary school, we were inseparable. Making up dances in my basement to Miley Cyrus' or Taylor Swift's new tunes. Carrying out the girl scout honor with our troop (yes, I still remember the oath!). All three of us getting chosen to participate in the "Invention Convention" because we were beyond creative and innovative for our age. Or do you remember when we got picked as the leads, the three sisters, in our school's play?

Middle school came around. Life was pretty tough. Em moved away and got placed into another school in the district. Sara and I hardly talked until seventh grade. We were experimenting new friend groups. We got pushed away from both of our social circles.

Every time I went to cry in the bathroom, you were the most understanding person in my eyes. Luckily, both of us found a new group of kind-hearted girls to welcome us under their wing. We had found our new home for the next six years, and most importantly, we were closer than ever.

High school was a bigger step in life. Emma was reunited with us! We played on the same basketball team (and I figured out being an athlete was not an option for me). In the winters, we'd go snow tubing or sledding, and enjoy pelting each other with snow balls.We’d all sleepover and re-watch all of our favorite childhood TV shows. We’d open the sun roof and blast some oldies, but goodies, and sing until our lungs started to hurt. I can’t think of a time when the three of us didn’t do something together.

And now we’re in college… the only thing we ever talked about in high school. We made it to our dream schools. We supported each other through the entire process. We’re happy for each other, always.

As much as I’m glad you both are making the best of the college experiences, I miss you both more than ever before. Sometimes, I think you guys are actually with me to pick me up on a bad day or make me feel less lonely.

I cannot even describe to you how much I cherish each and every time I come home. Every group call. Every text in our silly little group chat. Even though you guys are far from me, I feel like neither of you ever left.

Despite the distance, you guys are more alike than different. It's hard to find people who understand, or compare either of you at all to any friends I've made at Temple or anyone I've ever met at all. I'd give anything right to be home and dig into apps at Riverstar Diner with you two. I miss it all.

I hope you know that you both make my heart full. You both have been able to show me the meaning of a true friendship... kind, patient, hilarious, and simply, a beautiful ride. No matter where I am in the world, I know home will always be with you two and the people who have helped me to become who I am today.

Always love, sunshine, and happiness from me to you guys,

The Luckiest Best Friend in the World