joanna

When I moved to Seattle, I was more-than-lucky that a close friend from high school already lived in the area. Joanna and I grew up in the same neighborhood, and she's been one of my dearest friends for years. This photo was taken ten years ago, the day before I started college.

Joanna's remarked several times about how our friendship (and the circle of friends that we formed) was one of the best things that could have happened during her teenage years. And the same goes for me - we all became friends at just the right moment. And now, once again, having Joanna in Seattle has been one of the best things that could have happened to me. Last year was the hardest year of my life, and it was so, so, so wonderful to have a good friend that I could talk to - someone who knew my mom, who knows my family, and who knows all about me. Although I've made some great friends up here, Joanna and I have a history and understanding that just can't be replicated - we know the same people and have had so many experiences together.

And now, Joanna's moving back to Utah. The whole move is happening rather quickly, and I'm still adjusting to the idea that she will be gone. I'm so sad to see her go, but I also selfishly feel like the timing is good for me. Joanna was here for me during my really hard year - and sometimes I think she didn't even realize how much she helped me. When I first moved here and was dealing with a new baby (not to mention postpartum depression), my mom's diagnosis, etc., going to visit Joanna gave me the impetus to get showered and dressed in the morning. Just the fact that she was nearby helped to keep me sane. And now that I feel like I'm in a better place, I (grudgingly) guess that I can let her go.

Here are some of my favorite pictures of me and Joanna:

When I came home from my mission, Joanna was my "companion" for an hour or two until I was officially released. We went and watched a ward basketball game together -pretty adventurous for a returned missionary, eh?

We went out for a movie and dinner last Friday; it was our last GNO before Joanna leaves. It's so crazy to compare these photos to the ones we took in high school and college. We look so old! And we don't have such a carefree look about us anymore. Sigh. I guess that's what happens when you have kids: the responsibility and stress really becomes apparent, eh?

I know this isn't "goodbye forever," but I'll miss you, my friend. Keep the vibe alive.