How Did I End Up With Such Amazing Friends?

As always, this Valentine's Day, I'm single as the proverbial pringle, so I'm taking this time to think about my friends, how amazing they are and how on earth I ended up with them.

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I'll start with Maya. I've talked before about how I'd wanted to be her friend since I'd learnt even the slightest bit about her interests. Now, we share so many interests that it is just commonplace for us to get excited over the same things (from Mumford & Sons to BuzzFeed marathons). I honestly don't know what I'd do without Maya; she's always there when I need her, whether it's feels abounding, or just a down moment, she's a listening ear, and a damn good one at that.

Also, small thank you for letting me mess on with her hair. She's a very patient model who's always happy with the end result :)

Next up is Sarah. I haven't talked about Sarah much, but she is very important to me. Sarah and I have known each other since nursery, so for the last twelve years. Though we weren't the closest of friends in primary, over the last few years, she's become a friend I wouldn't go without. There's always a sense of nostalgia with Sarah, someone who's seen me through my weird stages as a child (I mean seriously weird) and through some rough patches. Thank you Sarah.

I've mentioned Olivia once, but she's brilliant. She's always laughing (at me a lot, :-/), but she's lovely to talk to as well. She's patient, but also quick-tempered. Olivia, you're my favourite small person (bar my nephew).

This is Arcanum, a band I know. I've known them all for varying lengths of time, and I'm quite proud to say that I've known the band since the very beginning (I was there when it was formed). They're two months away from their 1st anniversary as a group, and I couldn't be more proud of how far they've come. Their music is inspiring, their group dynamic is amazing, and they compliment each other so well.

In order, Sam, Jack, Jane & Sarah (M)
Also, sorry for my crap photography!

I'll talk about Jack first. Again, I've known Jack since nursery. I can't help but remember when we used to play in primary and Jack, being outgoing as he was, was always in charge. We didn't talk much in year 7, but I'm glad that in the last couple of years we've fallen back into step with each other. Jack, he's comedy, he's a laugh, he's wacky as ever, and I hope that never stops.

Sarah (M), I've known since she moved to our primary in year 1. We got on amaingly, and I'm glad to say that we can still talk like that now, even if it's not as frequently. I envy her guitar skills, like seriously, teach me!

Jane is the vocalist of Arcanum. When I first met her in choir in year 7, I was quite honestly intimidated by her voice, and even though she's in the same year, I was quite happy to sit on my own rather than try to make friends, hoping people would come to me. Since then, I started singing lessons, at first with my friends, then I was moved into a class with Jane. Even then, I didn't think my voice was up to par with hers (still kind of don't, but I'm getting better). Now that I know Jane better, I've found her to be a listening ear, very encouraging and complimentary, and I thank her for that. Jane, you're an inspiration, and if I someday have half your voice, I'd be happy.

Sam, the acoustic guitarist, I've known for the shortest amount of time in all of Arcanum. I first met him at a talent show in year 8, but I didn't start to get to know him until we were put into History and Geography classes together. Recently, I've been a lot more comfortable around him, and I think that's the same for him, which I'm happy about.

Then there's Emily. We had a rough start in year 7 (I've mentioned before, I'm a violent child) but we've become fast friends over the years. I can't believe how far she's come as a performer. I went to see her in Sweeney Todd the other night (thoroughly recommend this musical) and I couldn't help but be proud to see her where she is now, where she always wanted to be. Best of luck, Emily.

Next up is Lara, my twin. We met through Sarah (M) and ever since people first saw us side by side, they swore us off as twins. Even today, I still get called Lara every so often by people on her side of the year. Lara introduced me to anime; I may not watch it as much now, but I am so glad she did. Whether it was through my short-lived fanfiction career or now, my wacky attempts to actually complete an idea, Lara has and continues to be a great support for my writing.

Last, because I didn't realise I actually had this many friends, is Jake. Jake, you're an amazing boyfriend to Maya, and I'm glad that you're trying to get along with the rest of us *insert Spice Girls rendition*. I felt like I really got to know you whilst helping you plan Maya's Valentine's day present, and I hope I can get to know you better in the future.

So there you go, my appreciation of all my amazing and talented friends. I love you all!

Yes, I know it's three days after Valentine's Day, but I had to wait until I knew I could include the pictures of some of my friends!