Cali - Day 3 - Reconnecting with Friends

Friday morning I had plans to see my friend, Karen.  {You may know her as the e-wife}  We wanted to steal a little time together before the wedding since we both knew we probably wouldn't be able to chat much at the wedding, with her being the mother of the groom. 
She treated me to breakfast at a darling restaurant called Dish. {btw - California is FULL of darling little restaurants!}

Karen had the great idea to each order and then share.  She ordered the Fresh Spinach and Mushroom Omelette.  I ordered the Havarti Cheese, Fresh Asparagus & Tomato Omelette.  They came with roasted red potatoes and a side of toast.  We also ordered a short stack of their apple oatcakes, which they are well-known for.   We thoroughly enjoyed the omelets and potatoes, nibbled on the oatcakes, and didn't even touch our toast!  We finished with just enough time to make our mani/pedi appointments.  Which she also treated me to.  Talk about being spoiled!

This was the first time in my life that I ever had a manicure.  Really!  We both got French, gel manicures.  This was my second pedicure. The last one I got was when I visited her 9 years ago.  I guess it's tradition now?   It's such a fun, girly thing to do.  What a treat to be able to talk and catch up a bit and spend some special time together, but did either of us think to snap a picture of our fun time?  Nope. 
{Thank you, Karen, for EVERYTHING!!!}

We parted ways - she was off to tend to all the last minute rehearsal dinner details, and we were off to see one of Eric's best friends from years ago.  Whenever Eric tells the kids about a California living story - it usually includes John and something crazy they did!

He and his wife, Linda have a lovely home with a pool, which we really enjoyed.  The water was so warm.  They are just as gracious and hospitable as ever. 

 

Hanging out over a dinner of grilled steak, salad, watermelon and chips.

Once the kids figured out they had some things in common, the conversation flowed easily and there were a lot of laughs. 

 

S'mores and funny stories around the fire pit make for really good memories.

 

Raising families is busy business and time slips by quickly and quietly.  We are so blessed by friendships that allow us to pick up where we leave off.  I am convinced that in our fast-paced, electronic world that the human connection runs deep and is so essential.

Thank you, Lord, for the blessing of friends.