Thursday, April 12, 2007

Lily's gonna see Hannah!






















Let's see, how do I start this story?






Hannah is Lily's best friend. We met Steve and Tracy (Hannah's parents) while we were in China. They were not in our travel group, but we ran into them while we were there and found out they lived about 2 miles away from us. So, we exchanged numbers and promised to be in touch. Well, you know how that can go. We got home and were busy adjusting to our new life and our new daughter and let a lot of time go by without calling. They did come in to the restaurant where I work a couple times and we chatted a bit. So, anyway, we FINALLY called and set up a get-together last summer. We went to their house for a BBQ and, well, it was AWESOME! Lily and Hannah took about 2 minutes to warm up to one another. Then they were off and playing like they had known each other forever. I remember being totally amazed watching them together. I had never seen my daughter like that with anyone (outside of our family) before. Not to mention the fact that the adults all had an immediate connection as well. Steve and Tracy are two of the most genuine, incredibly sweet, and fun people I have ever met. I said a quick "Thanks God" for sending us such wonderful new friends and went about my business. We saw each other a handful of times over the summer and then I got the phone call from Tracy. She was sad to tell me that they were MOVING to Chicago! I cried. And cried. I felt silly for being so upset over it, I mean, we hadn't known each other that long, but I had pictured our future as friends, and the girls growing up together, etc. etc. But, they were moving and I had to accept that. I figured Lily was too young to even notice much. I was wrong about that. She missed her friend. She would ask to "see Hannah" all the time. I would tell her we couldn't cuz she lived too far away now. So, she began saying "See Hannah? No, too far away." It broke my heart! She would look through her photo album and point to the pictures of her and Hannah and talk about what they had done together. And if you ask her who her best friend is she will reply "Hannah". (Although she often tells me that I am! But, I digress.)

I am happy to report that Lily is going to see Hannah this weekend! Steve and Tracy have invited us to stay with them for the weekend and we are sooooo excited. I told Lily the good news about 2 weeks ago and now she will say "I'm gonna see Hannah!" at least once a day! I should have plenty of pictures and stories to share when we return. Until then, have a wonderful weekend and I will see you all on Monday!
*All of the pictures I have posted were taken at that very first BBQ*
*Tracy also has a blog that I recommend checking out here.*

22 comments:

Steffie B. said...

Have fun, drive safe and let us know when you are back home! Can't wait to see pictures! ;)

Praise and Coffee said...

Hi Nikki, nice to meet you!
Your little Lily is adorable! I love the ballerina pictures.

She reminds me of Lauren, she wants so bad to be a girly girl but is really a little fire-ball.
On Easter she had little gloves on and wore them all through church showing everyone she could!

She loves bubbles too!

Lynn said...

I've had so many great friends move out of state or hours away but nothing prepared me for the sadness I felt when my son's friend moved away...

Just part of being a Mom, feeling your children's pain, magnified.

Gwen Oatsvall said...

what a blessing... bonded friendships are so precious.. i am still praying you guys more our way!!!!

C's Mom said...

Good for you all! have a safe trip and enjoying seeing your friends :0)

Tracy said...

Wow, that got me in my gut! There really was a special connection between ALL of us --- thank you for putting it into words (the way only YOU can!). After reading that, I think we're going to have to move back! We can't wait to see you guys....

Anonymous said...

Nikki, That's wonderful news about about you guys going to visit your friends Steve, Tracy and Hannah. I hope you have a blast!

Thank you for the kind note you left on my blog yesterday, you are such a kind and sweet person and I really appreciate your positiveness and kindness. Have a great weekend and I hope Lily and Hannah have fun too. :)

Hugs,
Jonni

4D said...

Have a wonderful reunion weekend!

Keep smilin!

Anne Marie said...

Have a great time!!! Can't wait to hear about your adventures and see the photos of *all* the best buds!

Emmie said...

That is too fun! I can't imagine how excited you all are! It looks like the girls have a great time together! Enjoy, and take los of pics! :)

PandaMom said...

There is something about these girls from China and their connection to one another. Every time our PandaGirl meets one there is an instant bond and connection and they instantly play together, hold hand, chatter, etc. I know you believe me if you have seen your daughter do the same thing with her little friend. Have a great time and take lots of pics for us! ; )

Sugar Cookies And Hope said...

FUN! FUN! FUN!!!! Have a great time and I can't wait to rad all about it when you get back.

redmaryjanes said...

Have a wonderful time..take lots of pictures.

Amy Ellison said...

those are some great photos, first.
second - yay! for lily getting to see her best friend again - and third - i LOVE chicago. have a blast for me!

Tracey and Mike said...

I hope our future daughter will have a special friend like Lily has in Hannah. Have a wonderful weekend!

Beth and Shayna said...

It looks like Lily had a great time with her friend Hannah. I do not think they could be any cuter.

Mommy Spice said...

When we moved to North Texas I was so lonely for our playgroup back home. One day I bumped in to Panda-Mom at Home Depot. Our daughters bonded quickly. We just found out that there's going to be a move shortly. It won't be too far away, but we won't see each other as often. I haven't told Spicy Girl yet. I know it must be hard to have your friends that far away. Have fun on your trip.

Gee Gee said...

I especially love that black & white photo, Nik...
I hope & pray both the girls and the families stay forever friends...
The girls are so blessed to be in the good ol' USA...

Pam said...

I love that story. It is nice that they have that special bond. I hope you all have a wonderful trip.

Beckyb said...

I think that is SO neat - you go and have a great time - which, I'm sure you will!!! Can't wait to see the pics when you get home!!

Jody said...

Can't wait to see the pictures from the trip.You'll be missed.

Alyson and Ford said...

That is so great to be able to have friends so close that the girls will have some forever friends too.
I hope we are as lucky...

Alyson