An Evening with Friends

Earlier this month we had the privilege of enjoying an evening with our best friends. Our three families have truly become family over the past several years. Despite the fact that we all live far apart, we do our best to get together a couple of times a year.

This year our get together came just one week before one of the families returned to Japan for the next 9 months. We were very thankful that it worked out as it can be a bit difficult coordinating between the 2 or 3 months they are in Michigan, my Dad’s work schedule, and our other friend’s work schedule (he’s a pilot.) But when we get together, boy do we have a good time! J

The adults enjoyed talking in the living room while eating Texas Caviar and chips. We girls listened in for awhile and played outside for a bit.

The boys had lots of fun playing outside as well. They had a very violent game of lacrosse going on out there.

Photo Credit: Roma.

We had a delicious dinner of grilled chicken, corn on the cob, watermelon, salad, and homemade bread.

We all had a good time socializing over dinner. When our three families get together, things can get kind of loud. J We were eventually told to go downstairs because the adults couldn’t hear each other!

Photo Credit: Roma.

Downstairs we talked and played a few games before deciding to watch the highlight video from our trip to Haiti.

Photo Credit: Roma.

Part-way through the video, we were told to come upstairs quietly and inconspicuously to the kitchen (how are 10 children supposed to quietly come upstairs without arousing suspicions?) We did our best. The reason for coming up? We were going to sing congratulations to Mr. M for completing his training to become a Captain. We were able to surprise him, and the cake and cookies were enjoyed by everyone.

After dessert, we looked at some more pictures from Haiti as well as some pictures from our friend’s missions trip to Thailand.

Photo Credit: Roma.

The adults wanted to watch the Haiti highlight video, so we kids went outside to play tag.

Funny expressions from the boys.

Photo Credit: Roma.

Saying goodbye took about half-an-hour! It’s always hard to part ways. But we know that it’s not really “goodbye” but “see you later!” No matter how far away we live from each other, we are always able to pick up right where we left off. That’s the blessing of such close friends!