I love family vacations--I think my kids are pretty fabulous people to hang out with. But every once in awhile, (and believe me, it's been way too long!) what I really want is a get-away for just Doug and me. This past weekend, the kids were with their dad, so we decided to jump in the car and head to the Bay Area to visit some of our favorite people in the world.
Often when we visit David and Carrie and Freya, we go out to eat, we run around town a bit, take walks--pretty low key and incredibly relaxing. This time, though, we didn't even leave their place the whole weekend; we just reveled in the company, the conversation, and the comfort of people we are truly at home with no matter what we're doing together. We were thrilled that Clarke, a long-time friend to us all, was able to come spend Saturday night with us. I adore Clarke--he's got such a beautiful soul--and even though we don't get to see him nearly often enough, whenever we see him it's like no time at all has passed.
Sunday night Carrie made us all dinner (after she worked all day, no less!) and we got to hang out with more of our extended, extra family--Laurie, Mitchelle, and Gryphon. There was much giggling and playing and chatting and laughing. The kids had a great time, too--ha ha! Gryphon has such a beautifully infectious smile, and Freya's eyes just magically light up when she's happy. I just loved playing with them and watching them play with each other.
I always look forward to spending time with David and Carrie. The four of us just have such an easy, familiar rapport, as if we've known each other for many lives. And my goodness, I've loved seeing how amazing they are as parents, too. Carrie absolutely comes alive in the presence of her daughter--it's magical and palpable. She is the kind of mom I try to be (but am not always successful in the attempt). And David's eyes and smile are filled with love whenever he sees Freya; he's such a big playful teddy bear with her.
Yes, it was a long awaited road trip, and well worth the wait. I feel so blessed that we have such great friends.
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