Friendship Makes the World Go Round

I got together with friends twice today. Earlier today I had lunch with Andrea. She's facing some challenges, and our conversation was by no means light and fluffy, and yet ... Well, I can't speak for her, but personally, I always feel lighter after spending time with her. No matter what's going on in my life or hers, just being with Andrea makes the colors come out in my life.

Then this evening my writing group met for a Pride and Prejudice tea and discussion at the library. (That's us in the picture. For those of you who don't know me personally, I'm the one in the middle.) The tea was nice. The food was yummy. The book discussion was interesting, but the best part was just being together, sitting around talking about life. Interestingly enough, most of our conversation was on pretty heavy topics, and yet somehow we ended up (in between the clucking of tongues and the shaking of heads) just laughing and laughing.

Our conversation tonight did not revolve around Mark's challenges. It was mentioned, of course. People always want to know. But today it was about Kimila's struggles (past and present) and Jenni's challenges. Of course, I can't tell you what they are dealing with! Those aren't my stories to tell. But I can say that their challenges are right on par with mine. And yet they carry on. They find a way, and just do it. One day at a time. And then days like today, we get together and realize ... we're not alone. Life is difficult, for sure. But with girlfriends to help carry the load, things are just so much easier to bear.