July 27, 2011

Dear Joe,

I am so proud of our relationship. Not everyone is cut out for a life like this. Living 1,700 miles away from the love of their life isn’t possible for everyone. Of course, it’s not always easy for us. But the only hard part is staying put, knowing that you’re halfway across the country. Loving you, on the other hand… That’s effortless. That’s one thing I’ve never had to question. I’m proud of how independent we both are. Of course, whenever either of us has a problem, we can always go to each other, and I love that. But in boot camp, we didn’t have that luxury. We both grew up and became so much more independent because of that. Before I met you, I relied on other people so much for my own happiness. It’s ironic that it took meeting a man to finally realize that I could be fine on my own. Thank you for helping me grow as a person. For teaching me to stand up for myself, and to be my own person and make my own decisions. It also took meeting you, though, to realize that I don’t want to do it on my own. I want you by my side, every step of the way. So when you go to North Dakota, just know that we will be fine being separated for a while. But also know (as I know you do) that I will be right here waiting when you get home. I love you forever and ever and ever.

Love,
Amanda