Sharing The Love

With today being Valentine's day, I thought I'd do a little post about sharing the love around! I've only been in a relationship once on Valentine's day and I can quite honestly say, that I am much happier being single this year for it. To me, it is an over-commercialised (not to mention, made up) day. That might just be because I am a marketing student, so I can see it from a marketers point of view, but I really do not understand why we put so much pressure on ourselves to 'find a valentine'. That being said, I am not trying to s**t on anyone else's day, so if you want to enjoy it with your loved ones, then please do! I'm sure when I'm in my next relationship, I will be doing the same! 

Valentine's day is so heavily focused around relationships, but the day is about love; so why are we limiting it to just relationships. My friends and family have shown me more love and respect than any man has done (so far in my life). So in this post, I am going to share the love to all of the people who have been my absolute rock over the last year and throughout my life so far. 

My family. 

I honestly do not know what I would do without my crazy family. They have stuck by me through everything. From broken hearts, to university breakdowns, they have been there. My mum has always given me all the hugs I have ever needed and more. My dad has supported me with every life decision I make. My sister has been the perfect role model and never fails to make me laugh. Nathan has been the big brother I have always wanted. And lastly, my nan and grandma have kept me company and pushed me to do well in life. Without this love and support, I would not be who I am today. 

'Offline' Friends. 

I don't have many friends 'in real life' (meaning, people who are not part of the blogging world). But the ones I do have, are pretty special. 

My uni friends, Lais and Kerry have been with me from the first day of university. Listening to me nag about men I'm dating or having a go at someone for not participating in the group work. Whenever I feel a bit down, I can always count on them to cheer me up, whenever I step into the university grounds. 

Kate (Katie or whatever else you want to be called), has been there literally from day one (Well, week 2 of my life). We've grown up together as babies, to now fully grown adults (well, attempting to be adults). She has helped me when I've been so paralytically drunk, that I can't even walk to the station, to being a shoulder to cry on when life gets a bit too much. Words cannot describe how much I love this girl and I can't wait to carry on growing up beside her.

Nicole has been my friend for 16 years or so, and it is safe to say that we have made a lot of memories together. From her farting in my (then) boyfriends face, to crying at a sticker for hours on end in Ibiza (you had to be there). We've both had our fair share of s**t in life, but one thing we can always count on, is our friendship and love for each other, even if we do live hundreds of miles away from each other. 

'Online' friends. 

When I started blogging 5 years ago, I did not think that I'd meet some of my best friends because of it; I didn't even know that it was possible. When I joined Twitter, I'd spends hours talking to new people and making new friends. But when you take that friendship 'offline', it becomes one of the best friendships you can ever ask for. 

Macey, my lil American dream. We've been friends for nearly 3 years now (How has it gone that quick?). From sharing our love for Hobbie, to now crying down Snapchat to each other. You have been there for me through thick and thin. You've supported me during my school days and my transition into university. You've listened to me cry for hours about the next guy to break my heart. You've given me some of the best advice I have ever been given. You are so beyond wise for your age and you're adulting better than I am! I've seen you grown up into a beautiful, strong an independent woman. I honestly cannot wait until the day we meet! I will show you all of the best places in London and Kent, and you can show me the beauty of California! Here's to many more years of friendship! I love you Moo Moo! 

Mike, when I first met you in real life, I was a shy and timid girl who was hiding behind others. Oh how that has changed. A lot of people think you're a d**k and rightly so ;) but it's only when I got to know you, that I realised you had the kindest heart. We've grown a lot closer over the last year and I am so thankful for having you by my side through all of the crap that has happened. You're one of those friends who I can just spend hours chilling with, without the pressure of having to make conversation (lol we just sit on our phones). Whether you (and your cats) fall asleep on my bum while we watch Dirty Grandpa, or become my personal photographer in the chaos of London, you will always be 'that' friend who I can just be 'me' around. 

Rebecca Marie, aka my stalker. You came into my life when I felt at my loneliest. You were like my little glimmer of hope in my darkest of times. Little did I know, that glimmer of hope had been stalking/crushing on me for years! It is safe to say that our friendship is unique. From ass grabbing, to ugly selfies. I wouldn't want any other girl groping my ass in the middle of a busy event. You have been my rock and I would not be here today without you pushing me on. I love you! 

Shannon (Nuggs), I am pretty sure we are the same person. You make me feel less alone! You're equally as dramatic, bats**t crazy and an absolute p**shead, but that is why I love you. You're like my little cheerleader. Even though we are yet to meet, I already know that when we do, we are instantly going to become best friends (even more than we already are). Thank you for being the only one to see what I can see, and letting me become 'me' and not just someone else's shadow. I love you, as much as you love chicken nuggets!

Sarah, you have been like a big sister to me over the last few years. We may not talk much, but when we do, it is like nothing has changed. You give me the best advice and you truly are such a great role model for me. Let's make 2018 the year we FINALLY meet each other, please! I have your letter that you sent me, framed on my wall... but I'd happily change that for a picture of us, so GET YO BUTT HERE!

Georgie, I know we don't talk a lot, but you are an inspiration to me. The support you have shown me over the last few months, has made me feel less alone. You helped me pick up my tiara when it fell, you've shown me how to love myself for who I am and not let anyone take that away from me. Thank you for teaching me, how to be 'me'. 

This could honestly go on forever, but I'd spend hours listing everyone! If I haven't mentioned you in the post, that does not mean I don't love you, or that you haven't helped me... but, I'm sure you know who you are when I say 'thank you for being there for me and for loving me regardless'. 

Without all of this support, I would not be able to do the things I have done in my life. So, if you're single this Valentine's day... that does not mean you are alone. I have felt more alone when I have been in a relationship, than when I have been single. Surround yourself with people who care about you and spread the love! 

Happy Valentine's day!

xxx