Friends.

I don't know if it is because the events of Monday or if it is about the weekend upcoming but for some reason I cannot stop thinking about my friends. Almost as if God is nudging me along to take inventory of all that He has blessed me with. My friends have taught me, influenced me, laughed with me, hurt me, supported me, listened to me, but most of all, they continue to love me.

My friends include athletes, stay-at-home moms, homeschooling moms, comedians, teachers (and a lunch lady), computer geeks, doctors, nurses, wives, and moms.

Our interests vary as well. We scrapbook, read, sing, play, clean, cheer, volunteer, write, study and laugh.

We are concerned about our husbands, our kids, our health, our environment, our church, our neighborhood and our friends.

My friends amaze me in that they strive to learn everyday by studying The Word of God through studies, devotions, and even through internet newsletters. One step at a time, they want to learn what God's will is for themselves and their families.

It has taken me a few days to write this blog entry. I want to be witty and tell a story of each of my friends. I want to be clever and somehow wrap this all up in a nice little homage to all of my friends. But it just isn't happening. I can't find the right words for this entry. I don't know why. I can't really explain.

I think the purpose, if any, is to just say, "I love you," to my friends. Too many women in our lives have passed away and maybe with the events in my life recently I want to make sure that these special ladies realize their worth in my life. If anything were to happen to me, would you all know that I appreciate your kindness and patience? Would you know that I have enjoyed our conversations? Would you remember all of the fun? The Laughter? The Tears? And would you understand that even in the "ebb" times, I still prayed for you and hoped that you were alright? Would it matter?

Just so you know friends, I love you.