I don't know if I can exactly put into words how much you all mean to me.

From the time I was little, being with my friends was one of my favorite things, like most young children. We would just run around outside all day, hang out and make clubs, or just play with toys. Friends are so important, and I learned that more and more as I grew up. Between the two middle schools and high school, I have made so many amazing friends. I am a believer that everything happens for a reason, and every single friend I have had made an impact on my life in one way or another.

In elementary school, play dates were my thing. I would live for the times my parents would let me have people over felt like I was the coolest kid on the block. As I grew up, being asked to "hangout" with friends was the coolest thing, and I would impatiently wait for the weekend. It may have seemed like no big deal, but hanging out with my friends made me happy. I love my family more than life, and my friends became my family.

The four years of my high school gave me so many new friends and made the friendships I had from elementary school and junior high stronger. I realized how much I needed all my friends; they are all such amazing people. They taught me so much about myself, what I enjoy, what I don't, the kind of people I want to surround myself with, and how to be a better person. I will never forget the days and nights spent with my friends, whether it was at a party or just hanging out. Going to sporting events and going out after was the highlight of the week. High school ended, but our friendships didn't. We spent our summer days together, at grad parties, on the lake, or just in someone's basement to be together. Spending time with people never had to always be glamorous or at a huge event to mean something; there truly is no better feeling than being surrounded with the people who hold a huge place in your life.

So, this is for you all. The friends in my life who have become my family. I cannot out into words how much you all mean to me. Whether we talk everyday or I see you once in a while, I care. You have all helped me through some of the hardest parts of my life, pulled me from rick bottom, even if you did not exactly know that's what you were doing. Every invite, every "how are you doing" text, every get together with friends, every concert, every sporting event, every day I am lucky enough to have with you guys I will never take for granted or forget. You have taught me have to love my family better, and you have become my family. Please don't feel that you are ever alone or don't have anyone to talk to, I am always here. It is really the most I can do, honestly. I am so blessed with the people I have in my life. I could not ask for anything more. I hope I have been as good as a friend as you have all been to me, love you all.