Friends

I took longer than usual this morning to decide what I wanted to write about today. Possible choices included the weather (Maritimers love talking about that), maple syrup time, "sisters", or maybe layrngitis (an ailment I'm afflicted with today--RATS). But I chose to share with you a bit about a little day trip we took yesterday to visit a very special friend who we haven't seen since last fall, and I've missed her like crazy.

The afternoon began with a lovely drive to the south-western coast of N.B., taking in many of the coastal communities that come alive during the peak summer season, but are hushed by the changing tides that ultimately bring back the bustling tourists and the open shops along the water front. Actually, we did drive right on by these areas, due in large part to my anxiousness to get to my friend's house. And since Hubby wanted to sight-see he let me behind the wheel, where I'm quite comfortable thank-you very much! Other than those spring bumps that occur without fail in our province, the trip was soothing and invigorating at the same time. We reminisced about past excursions to the coast and laughed at some of our favourite stories. I've been priveleged to sing in a few local churches there over the past few years, with a gospel band that we formed back in 1997. Those days have since passed, as do a lot of "scenes" in our lives. But one thing that never changes, thank goodness, is that fondness one feels in the company of a good friend.

We did arrive at her house around 5:30 or so, in a bit of a mysterious fashion--well of course, what would life be without a little mystery. She lives on a quiet country road, surrounded by trees and wildlife. Being a musician and an artisan, she's very content there and when she saw us you could see that shining in her eyes. But, I still haven't told how we made our appearance. We parked the car a few yards from her driveway, walked until we could see her house then called her on our cell. After 5 rings (was thinking she's not home) her son answered and said, "Who's this?" I asked for his mother, who querried the same. By this time Hubby and I are both laughing and saying, "Look out your front window", and we were waving our arms like two lunatics. She finally saw us and her shock was priceless. She ran out the door and practically knocked us down with hugs of joy, at the same time saying, "The house is a mess" and I said, "We don't care, we came to see you not your house". It was one of those "polaroid" moments and not a one of us took a picture. My husband always has his camera in hand but he had left it in the car. I will never forget that as long as I live. I absolutely love to surprise people and the afternoon of March 25th, 2007 is etched forever in my mind. Now, it might seem rather silly to some to hold such a memory so close, but if you have those "special" people in your life you'll understand perhaps. I've sang with this gal and we have a bond that goes beyond friendship in the usual sense. We used to call our group, "Sisters in Harmony" and that says it best maybe. Still, there's just that quality about her that brings a smile whenever I picture us together. I love her humour and the sound of her "voice" (singing or speaking). I love the way her and I have connected and have kept that bond, even though we're seperated by miles and time constrictions. I'm so thankful that God brought her into my life at just the right time.
I think I will send her a card today. Since I can't pick up the phone and call (laryngitis) I'll pen my thoughts and maybe send along a coupon for a meal at our house. Yes, that's what I'm going to do as soon as I'm finished here.
Please accept my good wishes for you and "yours" on this day. Until the next time--Barb