Hey, Meg.

I've been out of the house for a few weeks now. I don't know how you feel about me being gone, but I think about you a lot.

I think about the times we've fought, and the times where we didn't even look at each other because we were so annoyed. I think about every morning and afternoon when we drove to and from school, getting in at least two long talks during the day. I think about all the times that we went to the store or to a friend's house and jammed out to the radio on the way there and back.

And as much as we fought like cats and dogs, I want you to know that I love you.

Being almost three hours away throws a wrench in things, doesn't it? But, we make it work. Instead of coming into the next room to show me your homework, you send me a picture or FaceTime me to ask about it. Instead of having deep conversations in the car to and from school, you call me and talk to me for a long time about anything and everything. And when I do come home, it's good. We're happy to see each other, we're having a good time, and our relationship is great.

I do miss you. The people here are great, and I love my friends, but there's a major difference between friends and family. We argue, sure, but at the end of the day I never have to worry about us never speaking again. I never have to wonder about you going behind my back or you deciding that our friendship isn't worth the trouble anymore. I appreciate and love my friends to death, but you're on a whole other level.

Sure, I'm not there as much as I used to be, and I'm being an adult and will be truly moved-out in a few years, but the physical location of where I live and work isn't going to change our relationship. I won't let it.

So, hug Mom and Dad for me, give my dog some much-needed love, and bop that guinea pig on the nose on my behalf. Say hello to Mrs. Martha and Mr. Jerry, and eat some of her sister's cake for me. Use and abuse the great WiFi at home. Go eat at the Pink Dipper, since it's the only one of its kind. Enjoy the fact that Mom and Dad pay for all of your food. Work hard in high school so you can (maybe) join me one day. Go to prom and have the time of your life. Remind Clark that no one will find his body if he hurts you. Hang out with your friends every once in a while, and for God's sake walk away from the homework for a few minutes and don't stress yourself out (save the stress for college).

I love you a lot, and I'll be home sometime soon. Until then, hold down the fort for me.

Love,

Erin