Never Enough

Somehow it seems Beth and I never have enough time to catch up. Matt and I went mostly the same direction while on our Easter visit back home. There were a few friends I thought he'd want to see alone and a few I thought I could see while he was with them. 

On Monday morning, I headed out alone to visit Beth and her four children. 

Right off the bat I had a chance to hold Ella. She displayed such a sweet, sunshiny disposition for the short time I held her. Since this was only my second opportunity since she was born, it was a real treat. She was very attentive, wide-eyed and pleasant. A darling girl.

Lily, at three years old, was a bundle of energy. She was fun and entertaining. She seemed interested in me and liked my attention. Almost the entire visit she was the one who was right there with us. Interacting often with Beth over whatever she was playing with, talking to her about her drink or the stool she wanted to climb on next to her. In times past, I had the least amount of time with Lily because of her young age so it was fun to interact with her so much on this visit. 

Nathan and Lydia were in and out. Almost as soon as I arrived, Nathan took me into the kitchen to show me their dog and tell me about changes in the backyard. Their huge play set, the dog house, the missing swimming pool that will be replaced this year...He was a good host taking me on a little tour. Of course I made sure I got my hug. 

Lydia came through occasionally to see us and at one point, slid into her Mom's seat when Beth briefly went in the other room. She was quiet most of the time, but I couldn't resist wrapping my arm around her and talking with her for a bit. It's hard to believe how grown up she is now. I remember holding her as a newborn while Beth and her husband Matt had a baby shower thrown by their church in Memphis. At my wedding, Lydia cried saying she'd never see me again (knowing I was moving far away). How could I bear not seeing my sweet girl again and again.

Beth and I talked all morning and I actually left late to meet Matt because the time flew by so quickly. It seemed as if we had just begun when it was necessary to break away. As I told Matt later about our visit, he commented, "You never have enough time to talk with Beth." Oh how he knows me. 

There's nothing like an old friend who you've traveled many miles with through life's journey. We met 14 and a half years ago and became instant friends. It amazes me how much we've grown over that time and how the friendship has held the same bond. 

 I was hit or miss with taking pics at Easter. These are borrowed as well so you can see them. :)

I'm blessed to have such an amazing friend and the love of her family.