You did it. You made it. You nailed it. You've graduated. You're here.

I'm so proud of you. Please hug yourself. You're incredible. You graduated. 18 years, babygirl. We're here. I love you.

Dear Amanda,
Go find Ashley and hug her. Wherever she is, find her. Don't let her slip away. Let those tears fall. They're okay, they're acceptable. It's been hard, I know it has, but you did it. Those days crying on the couch? They passed. They happened, but so did you. YOU happened. You made a beautiful story. You ARE a beautiful story. Please remember yourself forever. The way you love to write, the way you love your animals and family, the way you cry when you watch Disney movies, the way you choose water over soda, the way you dance when you eat, the way you dip everything in sweet n' sour sauce, the way you aren't afraid to say your feelings, the way you suck your thumb, the way you love French fries, the way you roast cauliflower, the way you hug Zoie in Utah, the way you outline in highlight, the way you love kids, the way you're just happy being you. Don't lose yourself in that great big world. Now, go find that damn muppet, that best friend, and watch The Muppets. 2011 of course.

Dear Ashley,
Go find Amanda a hug her. Wherever she is, find her. Don't let her slip away. I'm so proud of you. You'll never understand the love I have for you. I don't think anyone can love you more than I do, except maybe the Amanda reading this. I hope you're okay. Here's the beautiful things about you that I never want you to forget; the determination you have, the color mustard yellow, roses, the way you make food for everyone (especially Amanda), the way you love Big Red slushees, the way you mix Takis and Hot Cheetos, the way you smile and gush at dog videos, the way you love the park, the way you protect me. I love you. I hope when you read this that you're standing next to me. We made it. YOU made it. You're the strongest person I know. Teenage years treated you like dog shit in a bag, and yet you made it out. YOU did that, all by yourself. YOU are incredible. Please never forget how strong and powerful you are.

Motorcycle Drive By - Third Eye Blind
2:04