As I enter back into Jersey the reality of why I’m here has hit me. I miss you everyday.  I told you that all the time but now I wish I could pick up the phone and tell you so next you’ll say “see you soon then, who’s driving?” We would do rock paper scissors or flip coins…or just straight up bicker to see who is taking that lovely 9hr drive because we both didn’t like to deal with flying unless absolutely necessary. The distance never broke our bond and I’m so grateful for that. Your voice rings in my head regularly. The memories that we created together over the last 17 years will always be ours and I will continue to cherish them forever. It hurts my heart to know we will never get to live out the promises we made for the future and the places we wanted to see! I promise to continue making you proud as you watch over all of us. I wish I could sit here and rattle off the memories but as we said we could write a book after everything! lol. You LOVED bringing up the old shenanigans most of which I wish we’d forget lol. Whether one of us were having a good day or in a funk we always picked up the phone and knew what to say to each other. I took so much pride in being that person for you as you were for me. I’m so happy we never stopped being there for one another wherever life took us. I appreciate your positivity, your motivation, your loyalty, unconditional love and so much more!

I’ll be sure to hit up our favorite Chinese spot, (insert your annoying way of saying it) Chang Waaannggg, while I’m out here. You swore it was the best! Then I offer you my shrimp and EVERY TIME you’d patiently laugh and remind me you were allergic to shellfish. Then I’d tell you the same thing every time - that’s a horrible way to live and should probably fix that. 

I hope you know how loved and appreciated you truly are. There will never be another like you.

You truly are a king.

I love you and I miss you Tootie head.

Always, 

Mandee cheeks