até mais

As promised, I am dedicating this blog post to my best guy friend, James Wheatley. James is leaving on Wednesday, December 15th to serve a mission for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. He is going to be in Porto, Portugal speaking Portuguese for the next two years. CRAZY! Look out Portugal, you've got one fine missionary coming your way!

"God doesn't give you the people you want. He gives you the people you need. To help you, to hurt you, to love you, to leave you and to make you the person you were meant to be."

The journey all began our junior year of high school in Mr. Moore's 3rd period Physics class. From staying after school to collaborate on extra credit Physics labs to picking me up from Sutton in the mornings so I didn't have to walk in the cold, I immediately knew James was someone I could count on.

Since junior year we have definitely had some ups and downs, like any friendship does. In times where I have doubted our relationship, my mom even reminded me to "have a little faith in James", haha. But I am so proud of how we've handled everything throughout the years. It has been so cool to see how much both James and I have matured since our high school days, and I really think that is what has made our friendship so strong.

There is seriously NEVER a dull moment with this boy!

He knows how to make just about anyone laugh and feel uncomfortable at the same time...

...is always up for a Wendy's or McDonald's run...

...always has a funny story to tell....

...and can do work in the kitchen making no bakes, muddy buddies, and occasionally a breakfast sandwich or two!

James and I have made so many fun memories that it is literally impossible to list them all. However, here are just a few (big and small) adventures that I know I will never forget...

BEST TO BRING HOME

Oakton 09's finest.

ROAD TRIPS

From the Trailblazer to the Wheater, we have taken joy rides, stress rides, long rides, and short rides. Always with James as the driver!

VIRGINIA BEACH

In August, James, Cam, Deebs, Julia, and I drove down to VA Beach for the day. Although we spent more of the day in the Wheater (with Cam throwing up) than at the beach, I'd say it was a very successful beach trip!

WASHINGTON D.C. TEMPLE

Lindsay and Nick came to visit us over the summer. We had an action packed day, starting with a visit to the temple! 

GEOCACHING

Geocaching is basically treasure hunting in the woods of NOVA. It quickly became a fav summer activity. On this adventure I found the geocache and screamed SO loud. James hated me because I alarmed the "muggles". 

VIRGINIA TECH vs. BOISE STATE

This year, the Hokies played Boise at FedEx field in September. I came home from school for the weekend and James and I made an adventure out of it. One of my favorite memories for sure, I love sharing my Hokie spirit!

Thank you James for teaching me more about friendship, patience, and faith than I could have ever learned without you. You have made such a significant impact on my life, and I know that I would not be who I am today without this friendship. These past three years have been an unforgettable journey, and I know it doesn't end here. Do big things out there in Portugal, and I will see you in two years!!