Old Friends, New Friends

I have two friends that have been part of my life since my earliest memories. One of them, Shana, you met through Michael's last post. Last night, I was blessed to spend the evening with the other. Courtney and I have been friends for as long as I can remember. We were trying to put it in years last night and neither of us could . . . most likely because our earliest memories involve each other. I want to say since we were three and four (moms would have to clarify that). When we were growing up, it was hard to find a single day that we went without seeing each other . . . possible because we lived right down the street from each other. Lately, visits have been few and far between due to distance and duties. We hadn't seen each other for five years before last night! It's hard to believe it had been that long since it feels like she's still part of my daily life (the beauty of Facebook and cell phones).

Last night was a monumental night for us. I met two of her four children for the first time and she meet Jonathan for the first time. Our kids mixed immediately, and it was like, "oh, of course we're all friends. We've been friends for ever and ever!" Could it be because their mommies spent so many hours of their childhood pretending together and preparing to be mommies? We certainly loved our Cabbage Patch Kids! It was so much fun to see them together. Courtney's youngest, Rozella, is only two months older than Jonathan, and they immediately became partners in crime . . . we just know we're going to need to watch the two of them in the future! :)

All of the kids hit it off so well. It's amazing to see Emma as a 'tween. I can still remember throwing her baby shower when she was only four months old! She is as beautiful as can be, inside and out, no doubt thanks to her mama. Jack, second in line, has such a warm personality. He was immediately interested in getting to know Jonathan, and gave me a huge hug upon arrival at our dinner place (In-n-Out, of course!). He reminded me that he was two the last time we saw each other. Unbelievable! Sam has such a sweet smile, and was the quietest of the four. Zella's personality is larger than life, and she looks so much like her grandpa (in a very good, very sweet way)! It was so great to see all five of them hit it off so well. Jonathan immediately felt at home. So much so that, thanks to Wade, Courtney and I were able to sneak away for dessert and catching up time. Thanks, Wade!

I have a list of things that make me so excited about our coming move. Near the top of the list is the chance to spend more time with this family that means so much to me. This will be the last time we go five years without seeing each other for sure. Thanks, Berens family, for a wonderful night. Here's to lots of weekend adventures together in the near future! xoxo