Olivia Ryan (l) and Cassidy McLellan enjoy their first Halloween together

Cassidy McLellan and Olivia Ryan – Mustangs Ahead

(LAKEWOOD RANCH, FL) – Have you ever wondered what it is like to be best friends with the same person for 13 years?

We met in kindergarten in 2010 and now we will graduate together. We think our story is something worth sharing.

Olivia’s Perspective –

I remember walking into Mrs. Paoli’s kindergarten class and seeing everyone sitting crisscrossed applesauce. My mom and I sat next to Cassidy and her dad because we were the only two kids that had our parents stay longer than everyone else’s.

Cassidy’s Perspective-

I do not really remember much about the first day of kindergarten, but I do remember talking to Olivia. I remember introducing ourselves and then asking if we wanted to be friends. We both said yes, and we still are friends 13 years later.

Olivia’s Perspective-

After first grade, I started going to Gene Witt Elementary because it was easier for my family. I was sad because I did not know anyone at the new school for a little while. However, even though we were at different schools, we still managed to hang out a lot.

Cassidy’s Perspective-

We were in the same kindergarten and first grade class until she went to a different school from second grade all the way to eighth grade. We finally went to the same school when we both became freshmen in high school.

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Olivia’s Perspective-

A core memory I have is when we had our Nike Go Day out at the park. One of the activities was a race and Cassidy and I were in the lead and as we crossed the finish line, I thought I had it in the bag, and then I heard them say that Cassidy won by a little bit, and she was awarded the mini shoe prize.

Cassidy’s Perspective-

I remember that race being close but now I can beat her in a race by a long shot every time.

Olivia’s Perspective-

Cassidy is the reason I play softball. She introduced me to it when I was eight.

Cassidy’s Perspective-

I remember taking Olivia to the fields with my dad and I one day and we asked her if she wanted to try hitting the ball. She liked it so I let her have one of my older bats and she signed up for the next available rec ball league.

Both-

Overall, we are glad we have stayed friends for 13 years and are excited to see what the next 13 years holds.