Last year, I got pulled into watching the television show Friends. I had always previously watched it on reruns, but once it came on Netflix, I felt the lure of wanting to watch it from beginning to end. And since I have watched it, I wanted to take a moment to thank my personal cast that has been at my side. These days, friendships are rare, and letting loved ones know they are special is something serious and necessary. So here’s to you, pals.

To my Monica.

You were my very first friend in college. I remember the class that united us; it was in a small classroom with an odd and eccentric Professor. Since those times, you have become someone for me to depend on. I admire your smarts, your meticulous organization, how hard you work, and your work to keep your loved ones close. However, I have to say, Monica has nothing on you in the kitchen department.. You make a mean fried chicken! And your cut for cantaloupe?! Woo!

To my Rachel.

My goodness.. My gal pal, my girl, my spoiled little brat. Since you came to college, a year younger than me, I have watched you blossom into a beautiful and independent young woman who wants to go after what she wants. I am so proud of you for getting a job, despite some setbacks, and battling the financial aid department to stay at school. You are wonderful, and I appreciate the makeovers!

To my Phoebe.

You’re so weird. But that’s okay. It’s you! You never really have a set place and are all over the place. Freshman year, I remember you counting the places that you slept in all over campus.. And when you fell on your computer and broke it? Classic Phoebe move. I hope you never grow out of the crazy and childlike side you have.. But take a note from Phoebe and learn how keep the adult side balanced! You got this!

To my Chandler.

I never really know what you’re doing. You have a laugh and a smile that make me crack up. And when you’re tired, I can’t stop laughing. Especially when you took your contacts out! Never forget! We’ve had problems sure, but what Chandler doesn’t? I may have taken a while to warm up, but I trust your nuts and eccentric personality like no other.

To my Joey.

I’ve started to come to terms with your, I guess, perverted/non perverted/flirty ways. It took awhile, but I did. You find the oddest things funny and I appreciate seeing the memes and such. I love your hugs, and damn, you smell great! We bond so well and you seem to have something in common with everyone. Never stop being you!

To my Ross.

You have become my best friend and seeing you broken hearted has made me so sad over the years. Please know that one day, you, too, will find your lobster. You are worthy of that love and you got this. You are smart, and you will become what you want. Nerdiness, craziness, and everything else included.

So to these few individuals and a couple of super close ones, thank you for making my college life wonderful. You rock, and I hope we’re friends for a very long time to come.

I’ll be there for you…