So long, farewell...

My best friend is moving away tomorrow. To Buffalo, NY of all places. We've been best friends for 16 years and have only lived in different cities when we were in college but were in the same state, only 5 hours apart. She's leaving tomorrow and I can't believe it. Where did the time go? It's a new phase of life for her, after getting married almost 2 months ago in Hawaii, and now she and JB are moving away to start their own life and write chapter one of the Harmon story. Which is wonderful and for that I'm glad, but it doesn't change how much I'll miss her. Her dad lives down the street from my grandparent's house (where we currently live) and I can't tell you how many times over the past nearly 2 decades I've walked the 2 blocks to that house. Even when she is back in town, I won't be doing that. Her dad is moving up North to be closer to her brother so the house is being rented out.

Change happens and I suppose it's good but change can also be difficult and sad. Steph isn't the best at communication (a huge understatement) so I worry that once she moves across the country I'll hear from her every few months or so at best. I have a fear of flying so getting me to the East coast isn't likely in the near future... On top of that, she and JB are applying to the Peace Corp. They hope to get placed in a year and then they're stint in the Peace Corp will be 2 years, and they'd only be able to come "home" for Christmas. I miss her already!! I'm happy for her because she LOVES adventure and travel so this is definitely going to be a wonderful experience and a memorable time and I hope she and JB are happy in New York...I'm sure the holidays will be beautiful in the big city.

We met in 2nd grade. She was the new kid, having just moved from Nevada. I walked up to her and asked if she wanted to be friends. The rest, as they say, is history. We've had many a good time, some hard ones mixed in as is to be expected, but all in all, it's been fun. As we like to say about each other, she's my sister of the heart. I love her and will miss her, but maybe, just maybe, her living in New York will actually get me out there to experience the Big Apple for myself. Jason and I have never been there together, so who knows?

Steph, good luck and safe travels. Keep in touch, pick up the phone once in awhile and have the time of your life!