A Gift

Have you been reminded lately what a gift your friends are? They are a special blessing, a gift from the Lord. I have always loved my friends, sometimes more than they want to be loved:). Moving has made me love and appreciate friends and family even more. I honestly didn't think it was possible, but my love has grown!! We love our new friends. Everyone is so friendly in South Tampa. It doesn't matter if you are a 7th generation Tampa resident or if you've been here for a few weeks. Everyone is open and so welcoming. We are so thankful.

However, we miss our old friends. We'd love to live here with all of our lifelong friends here too from Raleigh, Georgia, Texas, Pennsylvania, NYC, etc! That would be just wonderful. You have no idea how wonderful it is to have old friends come see us here in our new life. It helps them understand where we are and what we are doing, but better than that, it picks us up when we're feeling lonely and just creates such happy memories for us!!

Dear friends drove in last night from Raleigh!! It took them 12 hours, and they arrived just before midnight. I could hardly wait for their arrival and finally gave up and went out to wait in the street!! Despite their being exhausted and worn out, we unloaded their car and sat outside by the pool and talked for too long before falling into bed!

We have had a perfect day. Palm Sunday is always special, and after church we grilled hot dogs and sat by the pool. The children swam for HOURS. They had so much fun together!!! They were all in bed by 7:30pm! We're looking forward to another great day tomorrow!