Hey Friendship,

Wow. These past years have gone by so fast, and I wouldn’t change anything about them. I’ve seen you grow from an awkward middle schooler to an amazing team captain, and now you’re going to be a bride.

The engagement seems like it has been years (because maybe it has) as we have been preparing for everything and counting down the days until “I do.” Going dress shopping, picking out flowers, fitting after fitting were all worth it because I get to be a part of your special day. I cried multiple times because you’re not just my friend, you’re my sister.

I feel as though I have put more work into this relationship than I have in any of my own. I’ve been there for every fight, every make-up, every breakup, and everything in between. I’ll be there for you when you when you both start to fight as husband and wife. You won’t need me much, though. I don’t think you guys will ever forget why you’re in love (but if you ever DO need me, know that I’m always in your corner).

Remember when you both first met? He was a secret you kept all to yourself with me just itching to know. I was so mad! But now I feel so happy for the both of you! I feel as though I have gotten to know him a lot, and even more about you through this courtship. You have grown into such an amazing young woman who will be a fantastic bride, wife, and (in a very, very, very long time) mother.

It will be so different crashing date nights now. I won’t be just the third wheel anymore. I’ll be the third wheel of a married couple. And that is completely different. I’ll have a lot more responsibilities. You will have made the “forever vow,” so I will have to be even more annoying. But that’s OK because you will love me anyways.

Please remember that you getting married is not an excuse for you to stop acting childish with me. Yes, we are both mature adults and we should act like so, but sometimes we need to blow off some steam and have a random dance party. Sorry, John.

To the people who say you’re too young, screw 'em! You and your man are the happiest couple I’ve ever met. You’ve made it through everything that life can throw at you. Even him being in the military hasn’t separated you. That is something amazing to be proud of. Who cares if it is not someone else’s idea of “the traditional wedding?” If it’s perfect for you then that is all that matters.

I guess what I’m trying to put into words is that I’ll miss you. I’ll miss our late night talks, sleepovers, and constantly being on each other’s hip. It’ll be hard to let you go, but I know he is an amazing guy who will treat you well. I’ll miss crawling into your bed and cuddling up to you when I’ve had a bad day. I’ll miss your random “let’s go on an adventure” texts. But you know what? You’re about to go on your own adventures. It may seem scary, but everything is going to be amazing. I love you, chickadee. I always have and always will! We’ll just have to include your husband now!