because of rachel....

....i know what it means to have an instant friendship turn into forever,
because of rachel i know what it's like to sing at the top of my lungs, and to run through Walmart hugging strangers.
because of rachel i learned it's okay to have an opinion.
because of rachel i paint my toenails bright red.
because of rachel i fell in love with wes and addison.
because of rachel i love cheerwine slushies in the summertime.
because of rachel i love God more.

rachel and i met 9 years ago. we were assigned to work on the ropes course at a young life camp. she was from texas and i missouri. we became instant friends and because of our differences called ourselves each others other half. we've never lived in the same city and after that month together rarely get to see each other. but, for me, it's the kind of friendship that picks up where it left off. i can be completely candid, quiet, loud, happy, or sad and know that she loves me just the same.

rach- thanks for coming to see us. we had a great time with you all!