A weekend with friends

What a wonderful weekend. These past few days I have been reminded of how blessed I am to have the friendships I do in my life. I had not one but two visits one-on-one with good friends. James and I had dinner with another couple, with whom we are friends individually and as a foursome. A birthday party last night with a group of twelve, some good friends, some budding friends, some women who inspire me but who I don't know well yet. Our host was also a good friend, who is the very definition of a friend. Dinner tonight with friends and their children (our boys' friends).

I have never had my pool of friendship overflowing as it does here in Orangeville. I have so many "best" friends, those who I could drop in on unannounced, drop the kids off in an emergency, lend a compassionate ear, be a shoulder to cry on. I have many "good" friends, those who I don't know as well yet, but whose company I enjoy, who provide hearty laughs and stimulating conversation, with whom I share common interests and passions, friendships I hope to develop deeper over the years and some of whom I'm sure will become even better friends. I have a circle of acquaintances, with whom I cross paths often in this little town of ours, whose friendly faces and waves of greeting are a big reason why I love living where I do.

Friendship is such a blessing and a gift. My friends have expanded my family to embrace these wonderful people who it is a privilege to know.