Old Friends are the Best Friends

Our summer was highlighted by visits with old friends . . . some dating back to college, others high school, and still others childhood. Last month I was reunited with my childhood best friend for the first time since eighth or ninth grade. Corrie and I were known as the "bobsie twins." We showed up to the first day of kindergarten wearing the exact same outfit and carrying the exact same pencil case. We knew instantly that we were best friends. :) From then on, we were inseparable. We did everything together: after school playdates, Girl Scouts, sleepovers, vacations, day trips, camp, our first concerts, won the three-legged-race on field day each year, played on the same t-ball and softball team each summer, and so much more.

In junior high we parted ways, as she moved to Olympia and I stayed in UP. Being separated was one of the hardest things I had dealt with, and as I look back, left a permanent mark on my friendships throughout the years that followed. So this particular day in August was one of remarkable significance and joy for me.

Of course we've changed some over the years. Corrie now lives in Texas . . . a far cry from the Northwest. We didn't show up in the same outfit, but we do still share so much. We're exactly the same height, both wear our hair in ponytails most (if not all) days, and my mom even said that we share very similar smiles. We share our faith and have both worked at our churches.  We also share the joy of raising boys; she has a sweet little boy named Oz.  We had time alone over lunch to simply look back at where the years have gone, and I was once again reminded of why I never wanted to be separated from her. She is full of joy, authenticity, and love. I'm proud to be able to call her my childhood best friend.

Jonathan quickly warmed up to Corrie. He also thought that Oz was super cute, but he wasn't sure what to do with such a very little friend (Oz is only a few months old). But he sure knew what to do with the old fashion pedal plane that Corrie's stepdad had!

I loved meeting little Oz. He is so precious, snuggly, and looks a lot like his mama!

Jonathan also found a new friend in Guy, Corrie's husband (who happens to be 6'8" . . . officially the tallest person I know). It was so fun to watch the two of them together! They had lots of great playtime outside while Corrie and I visited with both of our moms for a while.

It's hard to put into words how much this visit, albeit only a few hours, meant to me. I have been hoping and waiting for it for many, many years. Now I can't wait for our next visit!