Over 14 years, 6 kids, 2 countries, and 1 friendship

Kristin, Kori, and myself (photo cred to the wonderful Mrs. Susan)

 1,571 miles. 333 miles. That’s how far Kristin and Kori live from me. We’ve been friends for longer then 14 years, but I couldn’t find an older picture of just the three of us. I’ve always felt that this anonymous quote fit our friendship,

“I don’t remember how we happened to meet each other. I don’t remember who got along with whom first. All I can remember is all of us together…always.” 

These women got me through my childhood and those teenage years! Basketball, girl’s club, learning to drive, and camping trips make up many of our shared memories. We’ve come far since then, and I was blessed to be a part of both their weddings and now I get to see their combined 6 kids grow up! 

The top picture is from Kristin and my 16th birthday party; she’s only 9.5 hrs older then me, but I’m taller, so it’s ok. 🙂 The bottom picture is the first time that the three of us have all been together in the past 10 years and that happened May 2016. It was such a sweet time of catching up and laughter.

They have taught me that friendship doesn’t mean living in the same city, state, or even country. They have taught me that friendship doesn’t mean talking every day on the phone. They taught me that friendship is being there when it matters most. For the weddings and baby showers, and for the heart-to-heart conversations that happen around the children’s interruptions. They have taught me to be grateful for the stolen moments of laughter and conversations as well as the sweet memories.

Scripture tells us that friendship is a good thing (Ecclesiastes 4:9-10) and that we need to be wise in the friendships that we pick (Proverbs 12:26). I’m grateful that the Lord has blessed our friendship over the years and the miles. 

Kristin – thanks for always making me laugh and sharing your birthday with me! You have always shown me what it looks like to reach out to people. I always look forward to hearing about what is new in your life and all your adventures overseas.

Kori – thanks for always being willing to talk and share your heart! You have shown me what grace looks like. I always look forward to hearing about your parenting adventures and what the Lord is doing in your life.

And for the many other things you both have taught me…thank you from the bottom of my heart! May your children (and mine someday) grow into the iron-sharpening-iron friends that you have been to me!