Love remains the same

Thank you, Jeff Carl. Also check out Lonely Bird and I'll Be Gone Tomorrow.

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Today has been rather bittersweet. A day of goodbyes, but not of sorrows. It was my last day here in the 'boro, and I am mourning that more than than I ever thought I would. 

This morning began early. I met my dearest friend Shelby and her mother and sister on her way to the airport. California calls her name. It was more than glorious to see her smiling face, and we were sure to get in as many hugs as possible over a little breakfast. 

I love you, Shelby. 

They don't love you like I love you.

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As the day progressed, it hit me a little more each time I saw something familiar. What a beautiful place to grow up. 

I met some of my friends from high school for lunch, to catch up and say our goodbyes. It is so strange that after all this time, all the dreaming and the planning, the worries, the applications, the stress, and the anticipation: this day has finally come. 

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I got to have ice cream with my loveliest Lauren at our favorite: Sweet Cece's. Of course, we stayed and talked for almost two hours. Conversation comes so easily to true friends.

 And tonight I got to spend some quality time with my lovely Em: complete with a wild goose chase, some old school swinging, and of course plenty of laughs. What a beautiful young lady. This summer has been so special, with too many memories to count. We have traveled the globe and the 'boro together, holding each other up every step of the way. I will miss her smile, and I will miss her company. Thank you for sharing with me the most memorable and incredible summer of my life. 

I love you forever and a day. 

It is hard to believe that come tomorrow, I will be leaving. I can't even comprehend that reality. But these beautiful friends of mine remind me daily that no matter where we are, we will always be with one another. Life will change and hardships will come, but we will always have each other. It is comforting to know that no matter how long it has been, when we are together again it will be like we never left. 

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"everything will change, but love remains the same."