Slumber Party

I don't like being told how or when to do what.  I think that's why I generally resist the "spirit" of most holidays.  I think things get blown so out of proportion and un-simplified  by our culture.  That being said, I have really enjoyed this week's assignment- even if it fell during the same week that everyone else in the America was thinking the same thing.

The kids and I spent the last two days with a close friend of mine.  We did the math last night.  This girl and I have been friends for 22 years.  Of course, being barely 22 ourselves.... Yeah, whatever, I already admitted to the arctic blonde...Needless to say, we've been through some stuff together.  Real stuff.

I have no idea when our first slumber party was, I assume it was soon after the start of 7th grade.  Early on conversations were typical and girly.  There was lots of giggling, a few tears now and then, more energy than I can fathom anymore!  We discussed a boy or two, parents, siblings, first kisses, jr. high "dances",  movies, music, trips, dreams....Over the years things got more complex.  Some things I'm not prepared to share publicly, but she was there,and then, for her, I was there.  Always. 

The last two nights, as we talked, and giggled the hours away, we reflected on some of the stuff we went through together.  I can say beyond a shadow of a doubt, that it was the heartbreak, trauma, and the tragedies that have shaped us into the individuals we are.  They have been same tools that have given us the respect, trust and admiration we have now for each other as friends.  As a result, the sweet times are that much sweeter.

As we lay in bed this morning, hoping to squeeze out another 15 minutes of rest  (while kids took turns hugging the toilet, mind you!),  we talked about this blog.  My friend- who knew me when, knew me last year, and sticks in it with me so far this week- reminded me of who I am.  So, today, I'm adding to my Blessed List 21 things for you Jess:

1 I Have Not Always Been A Runner- this is a temporary, coping thing.  I am blessed because at the end of this, I get me back.  A deeper, richer, more firmly planted, me.

2 Cruise Control- helps me restrain myself.  That is a good thing!

3 Sweet Tea-  with not too much, not too little, just enough real sugar.

4 Grief-  only because it has made me deeper, wiser, stronger, sweeter.


5 Tears- for the power wash that they are.

6 Mirrors- because they don't lie. The naked eye compensates, over-corrects, deceives... mirrors are important in my job, because they show the truth of every line and angle.  They are important figuratively in my life because they show the truth of every choice, reflex and direction.

7 Golden Grass- the reflection of the sun on the blades catches my breath.

8 Clouds- the constant shifting of shapes and colors, never bore, never disappoint.

9 Gum- the mint kinds specifically. 

10 Second Generation Sleepovers- what a blessing to see our 6 kids building forts with the couches and giggling themselves to sleep 22 years later.


11 God's Perfect Timing- they way He moves people, places and things in and out of our lives is astounding to me.

12 Baby's Greasy Hand Print- that I just couldn't wash off my oven before I sold my first house.  Sorry whoever bought that.  He left one on my heart too.

13 Jeans That Fit Just Right- need I explain?  The day after Thanksgiving, especially!

14 Surrogate Aunts- the handful of you girls who treat my kids like they're blood.  You bless me.

15 The $20 In My Pocket After The Wash- doesn't get much better!


16 Laying On The Floor In a Sunspot- warm, secure- reminds me of being a kid.

17 Mountains- snow capped or otherwise.  The view means I'm home.

18 Sharpies- every color, but black the most. 


19 The Dishwasher- because I recently ran a household without. 


20 Maggie & Joe- the Jack Russells I call mine.  Loyal, always.


21 Communication In A Glance- because I am known.