For junior Abby Johnson, England is more than just a popular tourist location. It’s the place where her dad followed his beliefs to the next level. Her dad, a pastor, decided to pursue his PhD in Westland Theology and the History of the Church.

“…he had to go to Manchester University in Manchester, England, two weeks out of every year,” Abby said.

Two weeks a month doesn’t sound like a lot, but family is very important in the Johnson house.

“…just figuring out how to support him [was difficult] because we didn’t get to talk to him every day either because he’s thousands of miles away, and we’d all get really worry when he’d leave and make him text us right when the plane landed,” Abby said.

But it also affected Abby in a personal way. She is definitely her father’s daughter, they are incredibly close, in personality and extend ways.

“My dad has written me notes every day since kindergarten, and I love having them because if I’m having a bad day it really cheers me up and even if I’m not having a bad day they always make me smile,” Abby said.

The Johnsons are traveling to England next week to watch him graduate with his PhD, after a long, time committing, yet family bonding experience.