Three Amazing Friends

It was 2002, I was newly married, and my Dad found a job for me at his company in downtown Calgary for the Summer.  By the Fall, I accepted a full time position deciding not to go back to school.  This September marks two years that I have now been a stay at home Mom.  I can say without any doubt, that one of the singular most amazing things that job gave me, was one of my dearest life long friends.  Our friendship formed and solidified in 2003, and I am blessed to have her in my life.  She indulges and joins me in all of my crazy passions (running and flying to Florida with me for a marathon, and knitting and flying to Oregon with me).  She also loves my kids as if they were her own.  She doesn't wish to have kids, but if she did, she'd make one amazing Mama. 

In 2007 I joined an online community of Moms during my late pregnancy with Grace.  It was April and I hosted the first meeting of a Clothing Club.  I remember her sitting on my carpet, with her then 6 month old son nearby.  I had no idea at that time that this woman and her kids would become such an important part of my life.  Now three kids later for her, and two for me, we talk on the phone every day - sometimes multiple times.  She can make me laugh when I really need it, she can be a sound of reason, and a great Mama to talk to when you really need another Mom to meet you where you are at.  This sweet friend hangs out in the same creative zone of mine, and I love how she inspires me.

This next friend rounds out the circle, and came into my life through the first friend.  She has a quiet spirit and such a loving soul.  She gives of herself asking nothing in return.  She is smart, crafty, and beautiful.  Even the first time Grace met her she just loved her. 

These three amazing friends and I have been meeting weekly for a year now, at a local coffee shop to knit.  We spend two hours together laughing, sometimes crying, and living our lives together. 

Last night, on our regular knit night, we met for my birthday dinner.  When I was asked what I wanted to eat, I responded chocolate.  It did not disappoint.  We met at The Living Room and had cheese and chocolate fondue. 

I've been in a space in my life lately where things are becoming quieter.  The extravert in me is turning inward.  I fought it for awhile and now I'm just letting it happen.  And as I become aware of my tendency to want to stay home and be a homebody, I'm grateful for these three friends who meet me where I'm at and love me unconditionally, and help me to not cocoon myself too much. 

My Mom once told me that in your life, some friends will come and go, and others, a handful, will journey with you through all seasons in your life.  I am blessed at the age of 32 to know that I already have some of those lifelong friends journeying with me. 

If you three read this, thank you.  For your friendship, and for such a lovely evening.  My family and I are lucky to have you in our lives :)