I went to Curves for the first time in a long time this morning with my friend Patti.  I drove because her car was in the shop.  After Curves we went back to her house where she made a delicious gluten free lunch--- salad with pecans, apple pieces, grilled chicken with poppyseed dressing.  It was just delicious.

Patti and I have known each other for a long time.  We've been through a lot together.  So this afternoon was a comfortable and relaxing time of catching up, laughing, and sharing.  We had a cup of tea together-- something we've shared probably thousands of times.

She showed me her gardens and the lovely things she's planted.  She also showed me the various herbs growing on her property and we talked about the herbalist who had just taught her about the value of each kind of plant.  I saw (and heard) her impressive rooster and her hen and the 5 or 6 chicks that are now about half grown.

There were no children with us this time, unlike the many (maybe all?) the other times we've sat and talked.  Between us we have 17 children.  Ha!  I only have six.  She has the rest.  Our children have had many good times together, as have our families.  We are heading into a new phase of our lives,  as both of our youngest children head toward their senior years of high school.

Patti and I share the same faith, the same overall values, and the same priorities.  We think the same things are funny.  She has been a good friend to me and I thank God for our friendship and all we have shared.  God is good.  All the time.