I'll never forget the day you came into my life.

As I waited in a line of cars backed out into a congested road in greater Los Angeles, I couldn't help but wonder what all of the hype was about. It didn't matter what time of day or night it was, you always had a line of people practically drooling over you.

I've met plenty of restaurants that were overly advertised to be absolutely delicious, but winded up being a complete let down. I thought you'd be just like all of the others. You know, like McDonald's or Wendy's where, sure, they have "different" burgers, but nothing worth waiting in a 20 minute line over. I was so afraid that you'd break my heart too.

Finally, it was my car's turn to order over your intercom. As I read over the menu, I have to admit, I began to have my doubts. No chicken nuggets?! With only a few items to choose from, I didn't know what to expect.

"I'll take a Double-Double with a side of fries, please."

I have been to some fancy five star restaurants in my life, but never have I felt more welcomed and taken care of than I did sitting right in my car. Watching your employees prepare my food with a smile and their cute little paper hats, I began to gain faith again that maybe this burger was going to change my life...

...and I was right.

As I was handed my food, the aroma of pure deliciousness filled my car. Of course, I ate a few French fries for the ride and OMG. They were the freshest, most crispy fries I have ever eaten. I'm surprised I didn't eat the entire gigantic serving of fries on the three minute drive back to where I was staying!

Okay, this was definitely a good sign.

When we finally returned to our condo, we placed the palm tree decorated paper bag on the table and braced ourselves. As I bit into a fresh burger that was almost too big for my mouth, I knew my life, heart, nor taste buds would ever be the same.

I can't even tell you how many times I've contemplated getting in my car and driving approximately 14 hours and 58 minutes to the closest In -N- Out from where I live in Ohio. They say, "distance means so little when someone means so much." I wear the t-shirt I impulse-bought during my third visit with you often and silently cry one tear at the thought of how much I miss you.

I have no choice but to move out west now so I can devour your fresh deliciousness more than one week out of the year.

They say you never know what you have until it's gone, but from the moment I had you, I knew exactly what I had. Thank you for changing my life and my view on fast food. I love and miss you.