Dear long-term boyfriend/best friend/partner-in-crime,

Phew, where to start? I could start with the sappy stuff, but in all reality we've been together for so long you've heard all my sweet sentiments. So we will start with the reasons I can still stand you and a few sweet things you've heard a million times and will hear a million more.

You like to grill and that's super cool because something about summer time makes me hate cooking on the stove. You save me the good food and make sure I eat, which is a basic human need so it's pretty awesome.

You've known me for so long, I don't have to tell you when I'm mad/sad/irate. One look at my face and you know when to leave me alone or hug me until I feel better.

You've got really cool friends that have slowly become our family away from home. And you always let me hang out with you, even when I suggest you have a well deserved "guys' night."

You invite me to do really cool things with you, even when they're not necessarily up my alley. I'd rather not go on all night fishing trips but it's really sweet that you'd love for me to be there!

You always make me laugh, even when I want to cry or scream. Even if you're just being ridiculously silly, you know how to make my day a little better.

You still get twinges of jealousy, still treat me to dinner and make sure to always kiss me goodnight. The little things that sometimes get lost along the course of lengthy relationships -- you make sure to keep doing them despite the fact that you know you've got me.

You never take me for granted and make sure you show your appreciation for the little things I do for you, even if I do them just about every day.

You kind of tolerate my need for lots and lots and lots of pictures, even though you make hilarious faces.

You let me steal your T-shirts and we've accidentally twinned more times than I can count.

You've known me longer than the majority of my friends and are truly (cliché-ly) my best friend. Through times of happiness and times of hardship. Through high school and college. No matter where we are in life, you've been supportive and honest with me, even when I didn't want to hear it, you had my best interest at heart.

Life is an adventure with you. Whether we are heading on a cross country road trip or just driving across town, it's always a laugh and a journey. You know how to seize the day and I love that you help me look at the world that way.

You are your own person, have your own unique style and your own sunshine that follows you around. I love the person I am when I'm with you because you help me be the best version of myself. We have been together for what feels like forever, but we still have so much to learn about each other. And personally, I can't wait to find more little quirks and favorites you have as we continue our journey.

Love always,

Your long-term girlfriend