We all know that high school relationships can be difficult and many of them don’t last. Many people think of how easily they tend to fall apart or the young age of the people in them. As I lay next to my “high school sweetheart,” after almost four years together, I can only feel grateful. I see someone who loves me for all that I am and that I love just as much. He is the person I share amazing memories and go on adventures with. Although it isn’t easy, it’s all worth it. Here are six reasons why I’m glad I’m still with my high school sweetheart.

1. We’ve grown up together.

I was only 15 and he was 16 when we met. Obviously, we have changed quite a bit since then. We’ve watched each other develop and change. Once, we were two kids in high school talking about our dreams and now we are chasing our dreams together.

2. We are basically part of each other’s families.

When we first started dating, our little sisters were in middle school and now they are going to be juniors in high school. We’ve watched each other’s sisters grow and become the amazing young ladies they are! We’ve shared so many family vacations, family birthdays, holidays and family dinners together. We know each other’s families and love them like our own.

3. We don’t have to use Tinder or other dating sites.

I often get asked from family members if I ever want to “experience dating others.” To be honest, I’m glad I’m missing out on bad dates, one night stands and hurtful break-ups. It’s just something I don’t need to worry about and for that, I’m grateful.

4. We’ve been through each other’s awkward stages.

Unlike today, Drew used to be such a shy, innocent kid. At 16, he was too afraid to say any cuss words! We’ve seen each other’s bad haircuts (we won’t get into my almost mullet), questionable clothing choices and days when we’ve forgotten deodorant. We still love each other all the same. It’s awesome we can look back and laugh at those awkward times together.

5. He is more than just my “high school sweetheart.”

High-school sweetheart is just one of things I get to call him. He is also my best friend, my soul mate, my supporter, my biggest fan, my cheerleader, my companion, and my better half.

6. We have wonderful memories built together.

Drew was my first kiss, my high school prom date, I went on my first plane with him, we graduated high school and went to college together. I have shared these amazing milestones in my life with my best friend. We have so many memories together and we can only look forward to building more.