Dear Jamie Marie

I can't tell you how long I have put off writing this letter OR all the times I have started it and torn the paper up and placed it in the trash. Actually, I can. 14 1/2 times. The 1/2 was a rough draft. :) When I left home I never thought I would meet someone like you. Shoot, I never even thought I would be friends with someone like you! But I am so happy that I did. I know you are asking "What does THAT mean??" So let me explain. When I say "someone like you" I mean beautiful, intelligent, confident, and well, preppy. You are just not my cup of tea. ;) Anyways, back to the point, when you read this then that means we are saying our "goodbyes" and going our separate ways. The one thing I want to say in this letter is how blessed I am to have gotten to opportunity to get to know you. I know that our friendship was because of God. I mean think about it...we met at orientation, I thought I would never see you again then BOOM! There you were as my suitemate. Then my roommate! Only God could have made that happen. And all I can say to that is what a great God we have! I have learned so much from you. You taught me not to judge a book by its cover. You and your family also taught me what a true God fearing family is like. I can only hope and pray that when I get older me and my family are just like your. I also learned things like...what your room looks like when you don't clean it, how to be open to nakedness, how to NOT to study, how the simple things matter the most, and most importantly, how to be a best friend.The memories we have together are my most prized possessions. I can honestly say that because of you my freshman year has been incredible. Through many fights, love and tears we have remained best friends. And because of this I know that our friendship can handle anything. Yes, this is goodbye...but after every goodbye there will always be a hello. I will never forget you or your family. I have learned and grown so much because of you guys. All I can say is thank you. I have changed so much this year and it is because of you. I hope and pray that on your journey towards becoming what you want to be that God will bless you. Please remember that you can do anything! Don't limit yourself. You have a lot to learn but don't ever change the fact that God comes first in your life. I will pray for you every night. I hope that when you get to Union you meet someone just like me! :) You need SOMEONE to keep you in line! I love you. Have a great summer and don't give up on what you have learned this past year. I can't wait to see what God has in store for you. God used you to make me who I am. And I know that since I am so great then you will become so much greater. Don't forget me! I will always be around if you need me...plus I have to take my place as maid of honor one day! ;) Well, I guess this is goodbye...stay safe. I love you.

With Love,
Ol'
(Olivia Matthews)