happy birthday, Tiffy!

My best friend, Tiffy, is 23 today. To celebrate, here are 23 reasons why I love her / facts about our friendship: 

1. It was with her that I first discovered my love for salt water taffy. (What a wonderful beginning to a wonderful friendship). 

2. I blame credit her for getting me hooked on Diet Pepsi Lime. 

3. Her space is always warm and welcoming. Whether it's a dorm room or an apartment, I always feel like I'm "home."

4. She is my "person." I can be 100% myself. There is nothing I can't talk about with Tiffy. 

5. She makes delicious omelets and smoothies, sandwiches and stir-frys!

6. She is from a beautiful town that reminds me of Stars Hollow (à la Gilmore Girls). 

7. We can be cranky with each other and still love one another. 

8. She knows exactly how to cheer me up. 

9. She gives the most thoughtful gifts. 

10. Her elbows are bony and she digs them into your sides, but never on purpose.

11. She was one of the first people to call me "Mandy." 

12. She introduced me to the wonderful Keurig coffee machine. 

13. Her hair always looks good. (Seriously, I've never seen her have a bad hair day). 

14. We have been friends for two years now and I don't doubt that we'll be friends forever. 

15. She told me that I'll "never be cut."

16. She is one of the reasons that I am addicted to caffeine. 

17. I'm still thankful that she stayed up all night with me (twice!) to write papers. 

18. Some of my best naps were in her bed. (Even when she wasn't home). 

19. She is the best listener. (Trust me, I love to talk). 

20. She is one of the most wise people I know. 

21. She is genuine, honest, and hard-working. 

22. She has taught me many lessons, including some important ones about boundaries. 

23. She is beautiful, inside and out. 

Tiff, I love you and I hope your day is as fantastic as you are. Happy birthday, soulmate!