Rain, rain go away

Well, last Tuesday it was raining. Hard. Very hard. So, of course, that meant that Amy Brown was back in town and we were trying to have a bridal shower. It rained, but it did not flood and no tornadoes came over the horizon. So, we had the most wonderful little shower at the Chocolate Biscuit in Trussville. Eight of my dearest friends were there and we shared yummy food, lots of laughter, and a wonderful evening. Each woman shared how she knew me and then told a funny story about our time together. I was amazed to discover how much time I've spent with each of these women. We've shared so many meals, so many board games, so many adventures, so many travels, so many tears. I felt so blessed and so loved. The themes I discovered:
1. Many of my times with these women revolve around food. Interesting based on my history of eating disorders. However, maybe it's a wonderful sign that food has become symbolic of life, love, and friendship instead of sickness, sadness, and destruction. Melissa and I have cooked hundreds of meals together. Karen and I shared many lean cuisines lunches during graduate school together. Kelly, Terri, Krystal, and I have spent many a lunch at Bradford discussing the community, the patients, and playing about 200 games of Sorry. Amy W. taught me respect for all that dessert can and should be. Amy B. was with me the first time I ever tasted a mango. Oh my, that was a good day.
2. I love life. There was story upon story of Alison racing ahead on a trail, a hike, an adventure. I just love life. I think I've always loved life, but grew to really appreciate it once I had to choose between life and death and then fight for my decision.



Amy brought in a tree limb and had the women create a tree of blessing for me.



Eventually, the tree was covered in quotes, advice, and wisdom. I loved it!






Each women gave me a board game. My game closet is now packed out and I loved all the new game ideas.