FRIENDS!

 

 

Some days when I am feeling lonely I think about the great places we have lived and the super duper greatest friends we have made in the process.

We are so lucky!

I know how hard it is to make time for friends when you are on a trip to visit family, but boy, am I so grateful when these friends squish some time for us into their busy schedule.

It renews my soul to be with besties who know and love us, as we are, and it makes me feel special to be remembered.

Thanks guys!!!

 

During Christmas break we had a quick visit from the Gehretts from Washington.

We had lunch at IN and Out.

Nothing can help friends love each other more than a little burger and fries.

Then we walked across the parking lot to Deseret Book to hang out.

While the parents were talking we wondered what our crazy kiddos were doing.

...quietly reading of course... with their In and Out hats still on.

 

Love these guys so much!!!

 



Next, during Christmas break we were so happy to get a call to spend an evening with the Skousens and Craguns. 

They are the funnest people ever clear back from our Chicago days! 

 

All the girls reconnected by doing hair and nails,

for reals, they did it all night.

We didn't leave until midnight!

But it was totally worth it!

I really enjoyed seeing Mindy.  We went to lunch with her mom, Jamie.  Awesome friends from our Chicago days.  Mindy was a Laurel that I taught briefly in Young Womens, babysitter to teeny tiny, Maryn, and super funny, inspiring friend.  Even when she was a teenager I remember sitting around her kitchen table talking and laughing with her.  I was so honored when I got invited to her wedding at the Chicago Temple to her fabulous hubby. 

 

Jamie and I served in the Beehives together clear back 16 years ago.  She taught me so much.  Funny thing is that now, once in a while, we call each other for Young Women advice since we are both back serving in the YW's. 

 

They have both reached out to me so much since I've been in Utah! 

We have lots in common and most importantly they both make me laugh a lot!

I think I've said this before but

I always thank Heavenly Father for the travels that I've experienced throughout my life.  I am so lucky to have so many souvenir friends from moving around.  Although being away from my family was hard for so many years,

my friends really really became my family in every sense of the word. 

We needed each other. 

 I am blessed and richer for having known so many great people! 

It's definitely the gift that keeps on giving to stay connected with awesome friends. 

It takes effort and work

but

it's SO WORTH IT!!!