Platinum Friendships

Until today it kind of felt like we were just messing around in So Cal with friends. The Hollingsworths were kind enough to open their home & their teenage daughter gave up her suite without so much as a grumble. I personally think that that act speaks volumes about the young lady she has grown to be and also the type of parents that she has. Staying with Nat for me, though, was like a safety zone on the road of life. I do not remember a time when I didn't know her and many of my childhood memories include her. I love both of her parents and have always felt that the Barkers are all extended members of the Matson clan (and probably the reverse is also true). Though we have not always kept up with each other as our grown up lives have taken the inevitable twists and turns, I have always felt that she is an integral part of me. It's one of those friendships that you can pick up after a length of time and just keep rollin'. I'm so happy that our kids got the chance to hang out. And in a time of change and stress Nat and Greg certainly provided me with a safe zone. Grateful really doesn't cover the feeling. Leaving the emotional safety of their house and the state of CA is making the road trip seem a little more real. We are in for a long drive today but I'm starting it out with gratitude for the blessing of a friendship forged by the Matsons and the Barkers over 30 years ago and for both sets of parents examples of what friends do for each other in good times and bad. Also hoping that Tim was smiling down on us while we reconnected.