Party of Five: Girls' Night Out; Nourishment for the Body & Soul

My Sisters

Six years ago this week, 5 women met together for food, cosmopolitans, fellowship and laughter. Each woman knew at least one person there. The evening ran into the wee hours of the morning with parting promises of getting together two weeks later. Little did we know we had just formed a sisterhood that would nourish our bodies and souls for years to come. I and my four Girls' Night Out sisters have now been getting together every other week for the last 6 years, with exception of May and June; our summer break. In those six years we have brought 8 babies into the world and watched our lives change forever.

These ladies are not only my friends, they are my family; they are my every other week escape. We certainly don't always agree; we don't always like each other, but we always love and support each other. We have had our fair share of conflict and turmoil over the years. We've shared good times and bad; we've laughed together and cried together. We've broken bread together; toasted each other; and been there for each other. We've gone on trips together; golfed together; dressed up and gone out together; we've had breakfast, brunch, lunch, dinner, high tea and dessert together; we've seen plays and movies and art together; but mostly we talk together.

We've debated and discussed just about every single topic you can imagine; and yet there are some things we have not talked about. The sharper than usual tongue or the less talkative than the norm or the tears sitting just on the brim of the eyelid tell us that one of us has something she is working out, but isn't ready to share. And in that case, we just give her an extra squeeze in the parting hugs or a knowing pat on the arm and send an email later.

Lifting a Burden

Exactly two years ago, while on one of our GNO trips, I, a wearied, overwrought and overworked mom of a then 2.5 year old and 4.5 month old, broke down. I was so exhausted and upon return home had to clean my house and plan for friends and family to arrive the following weekend for my Darling 2's Baptism; and of course, I had a work deadline squeezed in there too. I hadn't planned any of it and was so tired I could barely think through it all.

My sisters lifted me up and took the burden from me. They not only planned every detail of the after Baptism reception, they paid for it, made my house look beautiful and served my guests, when they themselves were supposed to be my guests; making the whole affair much more elegant and delicious than I had imagined I would do for my friends and family. I will never forget that gesture of love and support.

Six Years Later

Last year, our microcosm was rocked when one of our members moved several states away. We contemplated breaking up the group; doing interviews to replace her {we were just kidding about the interviews; kind of} or just moving forward. We have moved forward, but we are fortunate enough to have her come back to visit frequently, and she has joined us through Skype on occasion. But when I tell of my GNO group I still say there are 5 of us, because there are.

May you all find sisters, with such accommodating and understanding husbands and children, as I have found. They have blessed me more than I can measure. How long will our every other week gatherings continue? Who knows, but I look forward to every one. Over and out...

Anna

Comments

[stephanie]

Beautiful post, Anna!

[Heidi]

Got a special note early this morning from a fellow sister directing me to this post (since mine come a day late, as you know). I needed these words of encouragement today, thank you so much for sharing and reminding me I'm not alone in this world!

[Nic]

You filled my cup today, sister. I'm raising it to another six(ty!) years together!

[Anna]

Thanks, Stephanie!

[Anna]

Heidi, You are certainly not alone, but you are missed!! Love you!

Anna

[Anna]

Nic,

You are always filling my cup! Thanks for your continual support in my endeavors! Love you!
Anna