Full...

This past week I spent 5 days with my oldest and best friend. She lives 3000 miles away and even though we didn't meet until we were 17 and 18 I feel like I have spent every day since childhood with her. We live so far away that we aren't able to be a part of each others every day life, but I always feel like we just spent yesterday together, even when 8 long years have past.

So much has taken place since we last lived near one another....we have gotten married, had babies, had drama and trauma and still I feel as connected to her as I did when I lived right down the street from her.

I moved to California when I was 17 years old, 3000 miles away from everything that I had ever known and loved, moved in with a bunch of strangers that were supposed to be family and met some of the most wonderful people I have ever known.

We don't even remember the actual moment that we met...we just know that we connected and became fast friends. It was the beginning of a great friendship. Her family was my surrogate when I needed one, her shoulder was there when I needed to shed a tear, and believe me there were quite a few shed.

Not only do I love her, but I absolutely love her family ....probably more than my own (pre husband and kids)....I sucked in her family like they were my oxygen. Her mother and father whether they realized it or not, were like parents to me when I felt I had none. Her older sisters, who were building their families when we were in high school, were always accepting and loving. Her younger sister was an adorable reminder of my younger brother , and her younger brother is hysterical! He always makes me laugh and smile! I love them all!

She is the Godmother of my oldest daughter and if God were to take me tomorrow and she needed to step up and take my daughter, I know that she could raise her to be a strong, independent, smart beautiful woman that I would be proud of. I have never once thought twice about it....

So the last 5 days filled me with a TON of memories, both new and old.....and Carne Asada...I am pretty sure that I gained 10 pounds. My heart is overflowing with my love for her, my gratitude of friendship from her. Filled with renewed love for her family, and new love for her beautiful little boys that I finally had the pleasure of meeting. Filled FULL of experience with her friends that get to spend daily life with her, and new memories from our time together this visit. I left California with a FULL heart and a full belly.....the best combination! My soul was completely nourished!!!

I will never be able to fully express my feelings of love and gratitude to my best friend....and I almost believe that I don't need to because she already knows....

I love you....and you know it.....just don't forget me......