We have been friends together
In sunshine and in shade.
~Caroline Sheridan Norton

 

Six years ago, I hosted the very first “Valentine party for friends” at my house. 

Although my desire was to have it every year, we missed four years because of pregnancies and new babies.  Even though our original group is not the same (several ladies have moved away and two have been added ), I felt that the time we spent together was better than ever.  We’ve all grown and changed, but our love and friendship has remained. 

As I made preparations for the party on Saturday, February 11th, I prayed that God would bless our time together. 

 

I washed up my Great Grandma’s punch bowl and cups in hot soapy water until it sparkled.

I gathered enough fiestaware for us all.  Scarlet, Rose, Cinnabar, and White.

I got little valentine gifts made: Godiva chocolates wrapped in pretty paper and string.

(Grace was very fascinated by this and made one for her bus driver, Tina.)

Rich and I made a special trip to my favorite bakery for some pretty desserts; red velvet cupcakes and a small, heart-shaped chocolate cake.

The gathering began at 5:30pm.  Soon we were all together again, laughing and talking non stop, just like always.

This is our wonderful friend Trish, with my adorable sister Amanda (in her fancy red pants!) We always wear red, white, or pink tops to the party….just for fun…..

 This is my dear friend Caroline. 

 

I made chicken florentine (Giada’s recipe=yum), rice, and salad. 

Our dear friend Elissa moved back home to Illinois, but I’m wearing the cherry apron she gave me and she was in my thoughts often~ 

 One of my favorite parts of dinner; watching the ladies serve each other. 

 

Amanda, Alicia, Trish, Cathi, Caroline, Kathy, and Shanda.  Five old friends who have been through thick and thin together, two new ones who don’t know what they’re getting themselves into (ha ha).  God is SO good, to give us the gift of friendship.  It’s our desire to nurture our relationships, encourage one another, and always be on the look out for other kindred spirits/sisters to join us as we fellowship in our area of Connecticut. 

 We gave cards and gifts, and wrote in our little book (pictured above with the red cover). 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 TRULY:

Good conversation is as stimulating as black coffee,
and just as hard to sleep after.
— Anne Morrow Lindbergh

Everyone left by 8:30 and I could not sleep until midnight I was so excited.  It was very special for me to have these women in my home and in my life.  We are planning another gathering, soon.

I love you, sisters!