Girls' Night

It's been a blessing for me the passed few days...I've had the pleasure of having 2 Girls' Nights. The first was spent with my cousin's girlfriend...more like a niece/little sister. We spent the night eating Thai food and catching up...comparing notes about dating, work, family and life in general. The differences we have in our lives are so far from each other, but it was nice having someone to talk to who listens and understands. She called it "time to decompress" from life. Dating to a 20 something is definitely different from what dating is to a 40 something. Such a different perspective of what we each want in a relationship, significant other and our lives ahead of us. But is amazing how a 14 year age gap doesn't affect how we both feel about overbearing parents, siblings and silly things we girls do and think about. She's the little sister I always wanted and I feel lucky to have her in my life. And this evening, I spent hours with my best gal pals (most of them anyway). They are the ones I have known since 2nd, 5th and 9th grade. How we have all managed to stay in touch and in each others' lives has truly amazed many. Our reason for gathering was one of them visiting from out of state...not that we really need a reason or excuse to want to get together, but it was fabulous. We feasted on a dinner I prepared and goodies brought by the crew...and of course some wine. Catching up is always fun, but to me...and I'm sure to the gals...it is therapy. A safe circle of friends to divulge secrets, dreams, hopes, disappointments and desires. A time to laugh, cry and just be. It never lasts long enough, but in our older age and obligations we tend to tire out sooner. Gone are the days of staying up to the wee hours of the morning gossiping, giggling and drinking. But the quality time we spent is something I wouldn't trade for anything in the world. I love hearing stories about their kids, jobs, trips and plans. As much as I love telling them about my life, the changes that have occurred and my hopes for the future. These are the friends who look out for me. The ones who are happy for me when something is going great. The ones who cry with me when I am sad. The ones I can call when I need someone to talk to. The ones I thank God for bringing them into my life and keeping them in my life. The ladies that know me best, my dear little family I have built for myself over the years.