The summer before I started my first semester of college, I was determined to remain single. It was going to be the summer all about me. I was finally, for the first time since junior year of high school, going to be able to do whatever I wanted, whenever I wanted. I had been single since the spring when I first met you. At first, you were just a coworker. I had no idea that you could become so much more to me. I had no idea that when I met you in Wendy's, you would end up becoming not only my best friend, but the best relationship of my young adult life.

Our first summer together started in early July. At first it was just a crush, but as time wore on and the days got hotter, I realized I was falling for you harder and harder. From that infectious smile, to the sparkle in your beautiful blue eyes, and the laugh that shook your whole body making you throw your head back and your eyes crinkle; I fell for the things that were unique to you. We spent the days hiking, and our nights talking about anything and everything. I showed you sides of me that I usually kept locked up, sides that I hadn't shown anyone I'd dated before. You made me feel safe, and I trusted you from the beginning, and I will trust you always.

You went from being my boyfriend to my best friend. There was not a secret between us. Even now, you know what I'm thinking, sometimes before I even think it myself. It's like were on our own private wavelength. Without you, I don't think I could have survived the first semester of college. You were my constant support system, the one who believed in me even when I had lost all hope. Because of you, I have the confidence to do anything.

You taught me so many new things. In the time I have spent with you, I have done so many things I never would have seen myself doing. I know more about cars now than I ever thought I would. I never would have thought I would spend so much time at Cedar Point, or ride the Top Thrill Dragster. I never would have imagined I would love the way someone reacted when they rode a steel coaster for the first time. I never would have thought I would have loved a 30-year-old BMW so much. I never would have thought that we would become so close.

You stole my heart without even trying. I wasn't planning on dating anyone, let alone falling in love. You have let me see the world through your eyes, and changed me in so many different ways. The moments I spend with you are always the best moments. I love you more and more each day. The future looks so bright with you by my side.