When you told me you were going into the Navy I was confused. I couldn’t picture it because it doesn’t seem like we are old enough for one of us to be going into the military. Wasn’t it just yesterday that we were little girls running around in dresses and playing with baby dolls?

Time flies by and it just isn’t right. But now that I have processed this information and I see how happy and excited you are for the new adventure ahead, I honestly couldn’t be more proud of what you are doing. I am so eager for you to go out there and do your best.

We have grown up together and you’re one of my best friends. Saying goodbye to you when you leave for boot camp is going to rough. I want to cry just thinking about it. It will be weird not seeing you at family gatherings but I think the hardest thing is not knowing exactly when well see each other again. We have been so close our whole lives, almost 20 years and now we may never live close to each other again. But you know, life goes on.

It may be hard to get used to not seeing you all the time but it will become the new normal and that’s okay. Because I know that no matter where we are in our lives, or in the world, we will always stay in touch, not because were family but because we are friends. We share a bond that nothing can break, also technology is pretty great.

We have so many great memories together and I look forward to making more in the future. Like when we get married because we will be in each other’s weddings like we talked about when we were little girls and I’ll come visit you, wherever this new life takes you.

I want you to know that what you are doing is amazing and although it may not always be smooth sailing, you’ll push through and in the end you will learn so much and shine so bright. I can tell you’re ready for this new chapter in your life and as you join some of the best men and women, you will become a hero. My hero. Our hero. You are going to make so many new connections and great memories. I know that your future is so bright and I want you to know that the whole family is so proud of you.

Good luck. I can’t wait to hear about your new adventures.

And now I leave you with this: a say we have said a million times, we are family by blood and friends by choice. I love you and this isn’t goodbye, it’s see you later. Now go out there and kick some ass in the Navy.