Treasures.

There are people in our lives that we treasure, people that impact who we are and make homes in our hearts.  Two of these people in my life visited me this weekend, stayed in our home, and reminded me what wonderful friends I have.  As I sit on my couch, listening to the rain hit the window pane beside me, I find myself wishing them back.  Moments, days, hours spent with those who hold special places in our hearts never last long enough.

Kristen, the wise one, is a true gift to my life.  I can count on her to provide me with advice and honesty when I need it most.  She is determined and true to herself in a way that is truly exemplary.  In many ways I find myself hoping I am like her, hoping others consider me to have the amount of integrity I have witnessed her to have in so many aspects of her life.  She is a stunning and, in many ways, very independent woman.  I was thrilled to talk about her upcoming wedding, discuss details and share tips.  Dustin, her soon-to-be husband, is one lucky man.

Allyson, the passionate one, has also proven to be an inspirational woman and friend.  She has a tenacity and drive that many would only associate with cold, business-driven individuals; however, her love for her family is unbelievably genuine and touching, proving the size of her very warm and open heart.  She too is remarkably independent and smart.  I find myself in awe of her passion and conviction.  She is firm in her beliefs and shows no fear, which I love about her.

The three of us caught up over good food and wine.  In many ways it was the perfect weekend.  Friends have a funny way of tugging at our heart strings, reminding us of who we are and who we strive to be.  These two are wonderful women that I feel blessed to have in my life.

We did, however, miss our other halves, the two that could not make it.

Libby, the healer, and Jenny, the nurturer, complete our circle.  We have created, over the years, a tight-knit group that, in many ways, has become closer apart than we were when we lived down the hall or across the hall from one another the years we spent together in that beautiful sorority house.  I love that as our lives have progressed and we've taken big leaps that we have found a deeper rooted friendship, one that is sure to last and grow in ways that I look forward to with great anticipation and excitement.

These are beautiful women and wonderful friends.  I cherish each of you and look forward to the memories ahead, memories that are sure to include all of you because I cannot imagine it any other way.