It had been 19 years.

As I knocked on the door, my heart filled with gratitude because the precious person waiting on the other side had been that friend that carried me through one of the harder seasons of my life.  (AKA: middle school)

After hugs, she looked me in the eyes and said, “Can we just talk about how we both had really long awkward stages together?”

I nearly fell over.  How could she have become even more incredible? (And hilarious)  But somehow – she has.

Stephanie, I’m forever grateful for your friendship.  As I walked through all the craziness of moving and middle school and crushes and REALLY large glasses, you were my friend I could always turn to.  You were my safe place.  The one who listened and shared and laughed and even shared the ridiculously large glasses WITH me.  Seeing you and meeting your little man was one of the greatest privileges.  Steph, you are an INCREDIBLE mommy.  It’s in the tender way you hold him and the way you your eyes dance when they lock with his.  I left your house with a giddy smile and grateful tears welling in my eyes.  You are a gift.  To your little man…and to everyone you meet.