The beautiful thing about friendships is how many different kinds you can have at once. I have friends I see every day, friends I see once a week, and friends I only see a couple of times a month. But this year I had my first experience with long distance friendship. It was difficult to go from seeing one of my very best friends every day to only seeing her twice a year. Luckily, there are many perks to a long distance friendship! Madison, this one's for you... with love!

1. The time and space apart make you appreciate each other more.

The phrase "absence makes the heart grow fonder" is truly a thing. I often find myself thinking about how great of a friend I have in her. We may be apart for long periods of time, but it turns out to be a true test of friendship. I know regardless of the miles in between us we have a bond that knows no limits.

2. You get emotional when hearing their voice.

A couple of days ago we talked on the phone and I found myself getting teary-eyed upon hearing her voice for the first time in a long time. Also, I was greeted with a beautiful song on the other end, in true Madison style. There is always something new and exciting to discuss when you don't see each other every day. A phone call will never mean as much as it does from a loved one far away.

3. The "remember whens" become a lot meaningful.

Obviously, you have made a lot of memories with your long distance best friend and you don't let each other forget it! The old stories don't come up often, but when they do they automatically become so much funnier. You usually end up laughing until your stomach hurts when reminiscing and it feels so good!

4. There's always a place to get away.

Tired of your hometown? Is your best friend tired of hers? Just hop on a plane and go visit! You always have a place to stay because you can claim their home as your own. A change of pace and scenery is good for the soul and it's better with your sidekick right by your side.

Long distance friendships aren't always easy, but they are absolutely worth the while!