15 years. I've known Courtney now for 15 years. I can still remember the first time I met her. We were in eighth grade and she had just moved from Iowa. She was the new girl and everyone wanted to be her friend, including me. But back then (and still today) I was crazy shy. Like don't speak to anyone kind of shy. But with Courtney I didn't have to worry about that, because this girl is NOT shy. She'll talk to anyone and make them feel like she's known them her whole life. And that is exactly what she did. It's what I love most about her.

Our friendship started in eighth grade and has continued on through the years. On Sunday, along with other amazing ladies from her life, I stood by her as she said "I Do." The day was filled with LOTS of reminiscing, some roasting and of course celebrating. I cried LOT. It was just a beautiful day and gave me time to think about the past chapters of my own life. Towards the end of the night, as Courtney and (her HUBBY!!!) Dave sped away for a honeymoon in Bali, I had a chance to chat with her family. As my friend Liz and I said goodbye, Courtney's mom said something that stuck with me. "How wonderful it's been to celebrate with you girls over the years!" And we both agreed, it's been so wonderful.

You see Courtney, my friend Liz and I have been friends for 15 years. In fact there are several girls from those early middle school days that have continued to be a part of my life. We've had our ups and downs. We've had peaks and valleys and our friendship has grown, matured and changed over these years. Our wedding pictures all have each other in them. Our families have all celebrated with us as we headed into marriage. A testimony to how we've always been there for each other when it's mattered most. I can't imagine what my life would look like without them.

So on Sunday, a cheesy as it sounds, I cried thankful tears for friendship and the love and support that friendship brings. These girls will forever be a piece of the story of my life. Someday I'll be able to share these images with my children and encourage them to be the kind of friends that these woman have been to me.