Friends in Deed...

Since leaving Philly we have been on quite an emotional, and somewhat physical, rollercoaster. We did take on quite a challenge all at one time, but in reality I don't think we have done anything extraordinary, stupid--quite possibly. Before this experience I think I viewed myself as a tough, do-it-myself, kind of gal. I have moved 9 times since we have been married, lived overseas and in 6 states, and have met a variety of new people and friends. During this time I have been able to be the one to help my friends, give them a shoulder to cry on, and in general try to be of service. Why did THIS move create such chaos in my mental status? I have no idea...but I have decided that it is OK. From the beginning of our move to NY I have been able to look around me and see all the friends I have in "deed".

I am now the one who is in need of help, need a shoulder to cry on, and the recipient of much service. I am indebted to in-laws that would support us in our crazy project in so many ways...including flying our kids out to us after we bought the house. I am grateful to the friend who when she found out I was living through one of the hottest summers in Mamaroneck "dropped by" with a cooler stocked FULL of my favorite beverage frosty cold as well as some more healthy alternatives. I am so grateful to the family that offered to let us stay in their home while they were on vaction--did I mention I had never yet actually met them? I am thankful for the meals and treats people brought to our home. I am grateful for the family that took us in and let us live with them for two weeks while our floors were being finished. I am grateful for the the friend that wouldn't take "no" for an answer and showed up to paint in spite of my protestations. I am thankful to those that loaned us their tools and lent a little advice. I am grateful for Sister-in-laws that came to stay even when they weren't sure we would have windows in the house...and helped us stuff insulation while they were here(Did you know it was November?) I am thankful for the special Christmas presents given -- even when we weren't on their list. I am thankful for many listening ears while I cried on the phone. I am thankful for friends who came despite the cold to celebrate our friendship and have a little fun. I am grateful for my Dad willing to cancel a day of play to put up door moulding. I am grateful for a friend willing to come at the drop of a hat and help me paint and stay motivated. I am thankful that my Mom and sister would drop work and fly 2,500 miles to paint, fix, and do (those are expensive day-laborers).

All of this love, caring, service...we are so thankful that we have friends who love us in deed. I hope that as things continue to improve for us here that we can be friends in "deed" too. This is not the first and I'm sure it won't be the last time we are on the receiving end of "service", but today I am grateful for all the friends we have. So to all those friends I mentioned, and those I din't, from the bottom of my heart, "thank you".