The Best Things in Life Aren't Things

I was walking through Peggy's Hallmark yesterday when I saw the most striking picture frame. The frame itself was plastic, what I would call "flimsy;" but the words on the picture frame were not. It said: "The Best Things In Life Are Not Things." How true! At that moment I began thinking about all of the amazing people that God had brought into my life. I was reminded of how very blessed I am to have such great friends. Here is a shout-out/tribute to some of the 'regular' (;-)) readers:

Jane: From the first day I began riding to choir with your family (can you believe that it has already been 5 years??), you have had a special place in my heart. You are a great example to young women who hope and strive to be what God made them to be. I am always impressed with your commitment to modesty and righteousness, as well as your love for your family members (however difficult they may be at times). I value our friendship highly, and I hope that we continue to grow and make great memories together throughout the next year.

Joanna: Dear, you have a marvelous way of making me smile and laugh. :-) I love your joyful, hopeful spirit. And you're one of the few people I feel very comfortable talking to about just about anything. You have a way of keeping things real that I appreicate very much in this world.

Janessa: I'm not sure I should give you a tribute... after all, you never did tell what your "awesome" (at least I think that was the word you used...) news was.

I'm kidding! I'm kidding! *laughs*

Janessa, it has been a blessing to know you over the past 5 years. No, longer than that; I can remember visiting your family when I was little (6 or 7-ish) and thinking, There's something different about her - in a good way. She's pretty cool. Those were my thoughts then, and they remain my thoughts now. I know that God has great plans for you. I am excited about the passions that He has given you and where those will take you.

Erin: Where do I even begin? You have been a great friend during the last couple years. You are beautiful on both the inside and the outside, and I'm so blessed to have you in my life. I think back to when we first started e-mailing each other, and I am amazed at all of the twists and turns (meaning: growth through times of joy, as well as times of pain and silence) that our friendship has taken - not to mention our lives. (As you've often said) We're all works in progress; what I love about you, is that you always seem to be pressing forward in your relationship with our Heavenly Father. I admire that.

Well, that's all for now. If I missed you, drop me a line (comment) and I'll be happy to write one for you, too. ;-)