We hosted the going away party for the Johnsons this evening. Our former neighbors and dear friends who are moving to California. I can’t write about how much they mean to us or how much I will miss them. Not just yet. We celebrated our friendship tonight with about 20 other families, but we still have a bit more time until they leave and I’m not ready yet to say goodbye.
This friendship is unique and sacred and I cherish it. I will write about it someday. But not today. I am not ready to shed all those tears. Tonight we celebrate.
The endearing story of how we met is that they moved in next door to us and Emma, their oldest daughter, came across some bubble wrap while they were unpacking. Just a small piece. Enough for 6 little toddler feet. Kristen brought her and baby Rosie over and asked our girls if they wanted to pop the bubble wrap with them. And the three girls – Annabelle, Gwyneth, and Emma popped bubble wrap while Rosie crawled after them and Kristen and I got to know each other. I can’t explain how easy our friendship formed, but it was simple and sweet and makes my heart happy.
My going away present to Kristen:
It’s lucky to find a fabulous friend and then miraculous when the husbands and children really enjoy each other too. That’s unique. That’s special. And I have never, ever taken that for granted.
The girls made pen pal boxes for Emma and Rosie as a going away gift. They can’t wait to start exchanging mail with them.
Of course there were cupcakes:
And plenty of fun for the kids:
And plenty of delicious food courtesy of B:
And then I failed to take any pictures of the party. Doh! Just caught up in the fun of the night. It was a great crowd and so many people came over to wish the Johnson’s well.
Kristen gave me a beautiful note and this book and made me cry.
I read the book over and over and this is my absolute favorite page.
Meyered...With Children 