Good friends

I have been very lucky. Yes, I could say blessed, but you know what? I think lucky is more accurate! I have always had great friends, in spite of myself.

Let me explain. I have not always been the beacon of kindness and loveliness that I am today. Okay, maybe I am still not all the way there, but on the path. There is much of my Junior High days that have been conveniently blocked from my memory. I was so odd and somewhat of a lost soul. I guess we all are a bit that way in those awkward years, but I think I truly topped the cake!

Tonight I went for dinner with two of my closest friends from Junior High and High School. I have not seen them in over 13 years! It was so great to be together and visit and realize how old we have become because the music in the restaurant was crazy loud! One friend asked the question I dread most when I get together with people who 'knew me when'. The question always starts with, "Do you remember when you..." I most often don't remember which is so great! But it is hard to be reminded that I once acted so stupidly!!!

Here is where I feel lucky. In spite of all my quirk's, in all different phases of my life, I have had true and loyal friends. Sometimes I wonder WHY!!!?? Why did they stand by me, dared to be seen with me, or put up with me? Truly, I am NOT exaggerating. I have grown so much in my 37 years!!!

M.W. - true friend from ages 4-12
K.W. and L.Y. - always there in elementary and Junior High
KR, YB, LC - stood by me through High School (and Junior High)
RP, HO, TA - helped me so much while I lived in Texas
LS, TW, BT, CW, AP, JG, and the whole Balmoral Ward at church - walked with me through so much in Utah
KC, KLB - who presently keep me from going crazy
JM - who even though moves around a lot, still keeps her eye on me
J.O. - who has been there through it all from age 11 to present

I still keep in close touch with most of these fine women. What a true gift they have all been to me! To all of you, I wish to sincerely and with all my heart, thank you. At times that could have been so lonely while I learned to grow up, and other times when I wished I were still a little kid spared from the challenges, and of course all the laughter too (which thankfully has been abundant)- you have carried my load. I hope and pray that I have done the same for you!

On a lighter note, because that was all 'too deep' as Devon would say - we sold our house and I am presently packing like crazy! We move into the new house next week and you have no idea how excited I am to be saying that. Stay tuned for updates....