I am a really fortunate person who grew up in a neighborhood teeming with children.  I had lots of little friends my age to play with.  In fact I have many who are still a part of my life.

I’ve been planning and looking forward to a dinner and some “Friendly Chatter” with my two BFF’s Misty and Terrisa from my old neighborhood.  More than just friends, the three of us were also roommates together at Weber State University.  Everyone told us that if we lived together we’d never stay friends.  Ha! Were they wrong! We had some tough times, but we’re closer than ever now, so take that Murphy’s law!

We’ve enjoyed a life-long friendship from elementary school to teenage sleepovers more numerous than I can count.  We stayed friends all the way to our weddings and beyond.  I was the last to marry and these two were my pregnant maids-of-honors.  Nothing is classier than having two pregnant bridesmaids. I wouldn’t have had it any other way. (Ignore the massive sunburn on my shoulders…no one thinks about applying sunscreen on your wedding day, you really need to if you get married in August.)

We have a long history together, so I’m always excited to see them.  We met up last weekend at Olive Garden.  I haven’t been there in years, mainly because it’s not on the circuit of restaurants we frequent which are: Chic-fil-A, Arby’s, La Puente and In-and-Out (we obviously have very sophisticated taste).

It was so great to chatter with each other about people we used to know, our families, jobs and current events.  My girlfriends and I get together and have lunch a few times a year, but this was the first time in years we’d been together with our spouses.  It was really great, especially since we left the six kids we have between us home for the evening.

I especially enjoyed hearing and celebrating news of a long awaited new job for Misty’s husband.  Second to that in highlights of the evening was hearing the dramatic conclusions to different episodes in each of our lives. I wish I had more time to dedicate to this friendship, but usually settle for the occasional phone call and semi-regular lunches.  In between, I watch facebook posts and try to piece together what life is like for my beloveds.

We ended the evening by visiting the childhood home of our friend Bodtch where her mother Mary still lives.  Mary was recently diagnosed with breast cancer and is currently undergoing treatment.  It was so special to be able to sit in her living room to wish her well and give her the update on our lives.  She was almost a mother to me.  I grew up watching Days of our Lives in her Kitchen.  This lady, Mary, is tough as nails.  She’s beat the odds at life several million times already, so I’m not worried at all especially since her prognosis looks pretty darn good.

I only wished I’d remembered my camera to take more photos of our fun evening.  I really love these ladies.  I’d looked forward to this evening for several weeks.  It was all I hoped it would be and more.

I hope you’ll take the initiative to reconnect with close friends from the past and get your “Friendly Chatter” on.  It’s #244 the Pleasant Event List.  There is something about kindling up those old friendships that make you feel loved and cherished.  It’s enough to keep you feeling warm and cozy inside for a good, long while.  If you’re down at all or just miss an old friend, give #244 a try.