4 ladies K.I.T.

Just before Thanksgiving, I had a short 2 day tradeshow in Anaheim. I've come to love shows in California because I can drive which translates to freedom. I can stop when I want to, take bathroom breaks when I feel like it and drive to whatever restaurant tickles my fancy. The best thing about this show was the location and its proximity to so many dear friends of mine who I hardly ever get to see any more. I had three nights to spend down south and decided to make the most of each one.

Night One was devoted to a lovely lady who spoiled me early on in the professional world. Emily and I used to work together at GSE. While she has continued with the company and become quite the little corporate success story, I am still considering the pros and cons of the decision to leave such a fun loving and attractive ;) company. Em and I went to our favorite restaurant, Gypsy Den and had our favorite entrees, followed by Hazelnut steamers just like old times. Our dinner date turned into a 5 hour evening event and I loved every moment of it. We questioned a lot of things together and didn't really come up with too many answers... but isn't it nice to know that you aren't the only one questioning?  

Night Two, I drove a little north to Long Beach to visit a Barcelona buddy of mine, Amber who was Jessica's roommate in Spain. We were insta-friends when we studied abroad together and with our birthdays only a few hours apart, I consider her another wonderful soul mate of mine. We dined at a fantastic Greek Cafe on half price wine night - can you get any better?! We caught up over piles of Schawerma chicken, pita and a bottle of wine and laughed laughed laughed as usual. We discovered that we basically have the same job with one small difference - I sell bugs and she sells garlic.

One of Amber's classic lines is "I'm down for whatever" and she yet again shared with me the essence of what that really means. Her "chi" and natural peace is contagious just when you need it most.

Night Three I had a LONG OVERDUE dinner with my college roommate and best friend Andria. I haven't seen that girl in an embarrassingly long time and was so amped to finally catch up. She has seen me at my worst and is one of those people who knows all my weaknesses. While vulnerability can sometimes be disconcerting, mine with her is a refreshing reminder of a very true friendship. We discussed our boyfriends and relationships, mutual friends, music, jobs and travels. I got to see her adorable new apartment and some of her latest art. She will always be one of those people whose talents I'm in awe of. What makes them even better is the accompanying humility. 

As I drove home to celebrate Thanksgiving the next day, I felt refreshed and truly truly thankful. I am sad that I no longer live in an area where I can see all those wonderful girls on a regular basis, but how wonderful to be able to jump back into such a precious friendship when reunited. We don't just fill the silence with countless "remember whens" but rather discuss what we're going through in our own lives - joys, fears and embarrassments alike. Keeping in touch can be such a challenge, but what a wonderful blessing it has been to me. 

Emily, Amber and Andria - I love you girls so much!