Dear Family,

We're always told from a young age that we'll find an amazing group of friends one day. A group of friends that will become more like family than friends, as close as blood and there for life. And we grow up expecting to find those people, growing more and more disappointed as friends come and go, as betrayals happen, and as hearts break.

But, after almost twenty years on this planet, I can say that I found you.

Our group is one that I'm happy to have. We have mom-friends, spontaneous friends, intelligent friends, funny friends, protective friends, crazy friends, and a mix of all-of-the-above. We're a diverse bunch that somehow still has quite a lot in common, and we make our differences work for us rather than against us. We love being around each other, but we are okay with not seeing each other for extended periods of time.

There are times when we get on each other's last nerves, and there are times when we need each other to lean on. I value that.

When I need my alone time, you all respect that. But, when I need physical contact and reassurance, I can go to any one of you and know that you're perfectly okay curling up under a blanket with me and giving me all the attention I need.

Everyone at our university is aware of our group. When one of us is missing, they're asking about us. When one of us is alone, they ask where the group is. And sure, some might think we are a "clique", but we really aren't. And even if they think that, oh well. Because you know what? I have an amazing group of people that love me, and that I love, and that I can always go to for support and affection. And if someone wants to think that, then that's their business. I wouldn't trade my group for the world.

We have two and a half years left until we graduate. Two and a half years until we're going off on our own, starting our careers, starting our lives as adults. But, I know that even when that time comes, we will be there together. We might be a county away, a state away, or a nation away from each other, but we'll get through it. We'll always be there for each other. We'll always be a phone call or video chat away.

You have touched every part of my life. I walk through stores and see things that remind me of all of you, or I listen to the radio and remember which songs we've yelled out to in the car. You are a part of my life as much as my family is, and I couldn't ask for anything better.

You're the best, ya hooligans.

Love,

Erin