One More from California, and a Bonus Flashback

One of the best things I was able to do in California was see my darling friend of my teenaged years, Beth. She moved in to this area when we were in our early teens. I can't remember if I was thirteen or she was thirteen but anyway, most of the good memories I have of the years after involved this wonderful gal. When she married, she eventually settled in California. She still has family out here, so I've been fortunate to see her every so often when she's out here, but this, to my shame, is the first time I've gone all the way to see her. The best part about a friend like this is that even when you can count on two hands how many times you've actually been in each other's presence over the last 2o+ years, and your lives get so busy that even Christmas cards become spotty, the love remains. When we get together, it is so easy to be together-to feel close and to feel that same trust. I really feel like if we lived close together, we would still have that same, comfortable pal-ness that comes with familiarity. She will always love me, come age, miles, life circumstances, and everything else, and I the same. That is a blessing.

These were both taken the summer after my senior year of high school. Not so flattering, but I like how it shows how much we liked to be together. I have no memory of the circumstances that gave rise to the image below, but yet, there I am on the floor.

The one above was taken about 18 years ago or so, with Beth holding her oldest.
The one below was taken last month, with Beth holding her youngest.