SOL 24/31: Just Visiting

We made a commitment to stay friends even though we left behind the tie (Islander Middle School) that made us friends in the first place. One of us retired in  2013, one in 2014, and the last one in 2016. Sometimes we watch a movie together. Sometimes we save an episode of a favorite show (Call the Midwives) to watch together. Sometimes we go out for a meal. But mostly we just visit. One time we had a getaway together at the family cabin that belongs to one of the group. But mostly we just visit. We talk about taking a trip together, maybe to Canada. But mostly we just visit.

During the pandemic, we had more than a few meals outside while we visited. One time when it felt too cold and rainy to meet outside, we met in a covered parking garage (which was not filled with cars), wrapped ourselves in blankets, spaced ourselves 6 feet apart, with hot drinks in hand, all for the purpose of visiting. 

Today we celebrated a significant birthday for one of our group. We started at a bookstore before making our way to an Italian restaurant. We complained while we walked a few stores away and across the street. I think the sunny, mild weather we enjoyed for a few days earlier in the week made us think that our cold weather was finished. Not so! But we were delighted that our chosen restaurant had a fireplace and delicious food. 

Next stop was my daughter's house to see two of the grand boys. Last stop was my house for cake and candles (one for each decade). Our two cake slices were from Deru, with slices so ample we that we got eight servings from each slice. In case you're wondering . . . we had chocolate cake with chocolate frosting and carrot cake with cream cheese frosting.

Only one of us still lives in the same community where we worked together. One moved south. one moved north, and one stayed put. You may find yourself wondering how we manage to keep this friendship thriving. It's one simple little trick. Each time we're together, we pull out our calendars and schedule our next gathering. It may not be fancy, but each time we gather (my OLW for 2023),we spend most of our time . . . (you guessed it!) . . .  just visiting.

This is my twelfth year to write a slice of life each day during the month of March.  Thank you Two Writing Teachers for creating this challenge and providing the space and support for us year after year. And thanks to this magnificent community for sharing stories with me and encouraging my writing.