Friendship

Things have been hectic around here lately. I think naturally, summer is a time for change. Schedules and routines vary. Families go on vacations. Well, summer has definitely begun around here. The Cutie and I were on a trip to visit family out of town for 2 weeks. We returned and the next day the Racer and her family were on the road to enjoy a much needed family vacation. Through this time, I was realizing what a big part of my life my friends are. They are the ones who are there with me for the day to day. They are the ones who are watching my daughter as she grows and changes daily. And I do the same with their children. I had no idea when I began this journey of staying at home mom, how valuable my friendships with other moms would be. We are a group who we lovingly refer to as the Freak Show. If you have ever run into us on a trip to Mervyn's, you would surely know why. When this group gets together, it is not for the faint-of-heart, as many unsuspecting patrons and husbands have witnessed. We are 3 moms, 4 kids and another on the way. We are 2 diaper bags, 2 strollers, 3 car seats and a multitude of snacks. More than anything, we are the best of friends...all of us. We are each other's normalcy.

As I spent 2 weeks away from my home, away from my car, away from my friends...it was glaringly obvious to me how much I missed the freaks. I missed the day to day chatter. I missed being known. I looked forward to getting home and seeing my friends.
Well, yesterday was the day. With both the Racer and I home from our respective trips, we all gathered briefly at her home. Moms talking, kids playing. Ah, normalcy! (I noticed the Deadliest Catch made a quick exit :) It was only about 10 minutes we were all together, but 1 thing struck me. I looked over at my daughter and saw such contentment. She was basking in the comfort of being together again with her closest friends. Then I saw in on all of their little faces.

All along, I thought the Freak Show was about us moms, being there to support each other through this life. But yesterday, I quickly realized these relationships aren't only important for us, but also to our children. They need each other. We are teaching them lessons about friendship that will be lifelong. They will model the relationships they see us build.

The Freak Show will be under construction soon as we add a new baby and kindergarten and preschool to our mix. But, I can't wait. Life doesn't break us...it only make us freakier!
I can't wait for the blessings God has in store for us. He uses these friendships to grow and change us, to challenge and comfort us. So, thank you Freaks...I love you...each and every one!