This V-Day, I've decided to celebrate - and even brag a little - about the wonderful friends in our lives.
We are spoiled rotten with love in its most beautiful form. Love that is expressed in smiles and laughter, respect and kindness, in gifts of time, thoughtfulness and compassion. Our biggest challenges in dealing with our loved ones is having enough quality time with all the people that we are lucky enough to have in our lives.
In my pre-kid days, there were always a few people that I considered my pillars. These days, we have our own tribe.
There's K, one of my longest-standing pillars, that loves and respects my girls and they love and respect him right back. We don't see him that often, but whenever we do, it's like no time has passed, and our time together is full of music and laughter. And I know I can - and do - call him anytime and vent or cry or share with him a really stupid story that I know he'll enjoy.
Just recently, we had a fantastic time with S, the Arts Director at the girls' former after-school program. The dinner lasted almost 3 hours, and there was never a lull in conversation. The girls and I always brighten in her presence and we are so grateful for all that she's given all of us. She cheers us on every step of the way, and offers each of us all the support she can.
R is another great friend we don't get to see often enough, but every memory brings a smile. He's so smart, so encouraging, and has also been instrumental in changing the girls' lives for the better. We laugh a lot during our bowling or roller-skating adventures, as he brings out the kid in all of us.
AH and KR became great friends of ours when we all did The Music Man together. They're fairly new to our tribe, and we always look forward to spending time with them. AH is so calming and soothing, and shares all my greatest passions. I can't get enough of her. I'm lucky to spend at least one night a month with KR, but I always crave more time with her. She makes me laugh, makes me think, and she was one of my greatest sources of comfort when Bobbie died. She will always hold a special place in my heart.
Of course, my work friends remain an important part of our lives. The girls love stopping by and saying hello to all these amazing, funny, smart people with whom I get to spend at least 40 hours a week. You know they must be pretty great when we look forward to spending time together outside the work-week, too!
The tribe is growing with all the great people I get to spend time with at Board meetings and events. I am loving getting to know these people; they are smart, compassionate, talented and even better, just so much fun. I love that they don't take themselves too seriously as they forge ahead in making a difference in our community. I can't believe I get to work right alongside of them.
There are so many people missing from this list. Friends from all our walks of life; our schools and former schools, former colleagues, blogger friends, and of course, our family. My parents and my sister always have and always will be our best pillars.
Today, I want to celebrate everyone (including readers) that have opened their hearts to us. Friendships free of drama or ulterior motives, friends that warm our hearts and inspire us. Really great people who are our heroes.
We love you, we thank you, and we are honored to celebrate our love for you. Not just today, of course, but every day. Thank you for your love, and know that you have ours.
P.S. If you've posted about love of self, friends or any other loves besides romantic, please let me know!
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