The three of us enjoyed a delicious dinner and lots of chatter. As our taste buds were treated to some vegetarian victuals, we soaked in the precious time together, fully aware that it is an all-too infrequent treat to be with girlfriends. To switch hats from “girlfriend” to “football mom”, Erika had to leave shortly after our triad shared a dessert together (pineapple sorbet over coconut caramel, surrounded by pineapple and mango salsa and miniature apple pastries).
Cheryll and I relocated to the Starbucks across the street for some cozy conversation in over-sized, plump purple chairs. As she ordered her Pumpkin Spice Latte, I shared my finite Starbucks wisdom with her and suggested the “no foam” option (smartly shared with moi by my friend Lysa) so that she could enjoy more of the actual latte. (Neither Cheryll nor I claim to have much “Starbucks Savvy”, so we felt rather special adding the “no foam” request.)
Earlier yesterday, I spent a few treasured hours with my friend Lucille shopping at Trader Joe’s and enjoying a quick lunch at Jules Organic Thin Crust. A few days ago, my friend Heather and I talked for an hour about special, enduring friendships that we want to nourish so reverently and carefully before the Lord.
As Cheryll and I sat talking last evening in Starbucks, I quietly thanked the Lord for serendipitous, sweet, honest and refreshing friendships. My heart is so very thankful for the friendships He has given me as gifts. Reverently before Him with a deeply grateful heart, I want to take the time to nourish and cultivate the friendships He has given me. Whether they are sprouting friendships or deeply rooted ones that have weathered decades, I truly care about each one so dearly. If we are blessed with seeing each other once a week, once a month or once a year, I want to honor Him by caring for the friendships He has given me as He leads.
As we mutually care for our relationships in such a way to honor Him, family becomes friends and friends become family. Treasure the treasures He has given you. Pray. Make a phone call. Send a hand-written card. Nourish. Cultivate. Water.
Is the Lord putting it on your heart to reach out to someone in friendship? Maybe even someone who seems like they are “fine” and doesn’t need another friend? Listen to His still, small voice. Reach out. Don’t squash the Spirit…a beautiful friendship may blossom.
My dear girlfriends, I love you and care about you deeply. I am humbly blessed and thankful for each one of you. My prayer is that I honor Him with our relationship. For His glory.
Squash blossoms, just gonna have to try em.
And sweet one, I was so close to you as well. On our next trip, we'll have to get together. This one was such a whirlwind.
Hugs to you,
Sarah Dawn
Squash blossoms…sounds very fall.
So glad you had those precious friendship moments. What a blessing!
In fact, it is funny, because I teach Sunday School to kindergartners and our lesson today is on friendship. Jesus needed and had friends too. Mary, Martha and lazarus.
Coincidence? I think not!
I am thankful for you and your encouraging words everyday.
Friendship is one of the most important things in my life. no kidding! I am so thankful for your friendship from afar, Sharon!
Glad you had some girl time. It is so important to re-invigerate a mom!
A good lasting friendship does not come along many different times in each of our lives and is definitely worth the time and effort they take to make them. It is so important that we "treasure the treasures that He has given us"
I am glad that you had a great time with your friends.
Christy
Lovely post 😉
It makes me want to grab a girlfriend and head out for some fun!
Over the years, I have learned that we were created for fellowship. I need my friends!
Thanks for the encouragement today!
Sweet Blessings,
Kate 🙂
You are so right to say that friends are very dear. The squash blossoms and no foam sound like great choices.