Just a wet day

It’s a mopey day today. We hadn’t had rain in about two weeks and then finally things moistened up yesterday. It’s still cloudy and grey and drippy as I look out my living room windows. Yesterday, though, I thought it was very pretty. Today, it makes me sort of sad.

It was one of those visits that just fills you up and makes you realize the gift of real friendship. Zeke and I met in college. By that first Thanksgiving we were really good friends. By that first Christmas, I considered him a best friend. And that has never changed, despite years and distance and boyfriends.

The last time I saw Zeke before this weekend was about a year and a half ago when I went to NYC for a few days. Before that, we hadn’t seen each other in about 10 years. Now we’re both committed to making sure we don’t let another decade pass between visits. So for several months now I’ve had “ZEKE HERE!!!” on my calendar. And poof, he and the weekend are already gone.

I’ve wondered if it’s a sign of age that recently I get all sentimental and weepy and stuff after guests leave. It’s a different mix of emotions than what I’ve felt in the past. It feels more like gratitude and thankfulness and appreciation for family and friendships that feel so rich. Maybe that comes with time and age. Maybe that comes with distance. Maybe that comes with a quieter lifestyle that encourages more reflection. Whatever it is, as sniffly as I am, I’m actually thankful for the need for Kleenex today. When it comes down to it, life is really all about people and relationships. And I am truly grateful to have people in my life to get teary about.