Keeping in Touch with Old Friends

There is something about the friends that knew you before you were all wrapped up in adult life. They knew you before you were a wife or mom. You can get together and it feels like no time has passed. They have shared your children's stories from birth to college. They can make you laugh until you're in tears and you feel safe sharing tears discussing life's hardships. They are in your life for the long haul. They are your forever friends. If you are blessed enough to have these people in your life, hang on to those relationships.

We all get busy and it can be hard to fit one more thing into our schedule, but these relationships are worth the effort. If distance is an issue, schedule a video call to catch up. If you still live in proximity to each other, take the lead and pick a date to get together. Some tips that have helped my high-school friend group keep in touch:

• The planner picks the date. Maybe not everyone can make it, but anyone that misses needs to pick the date for the next get-together.

• A potluck hosted at someone's house can be better for conversation, rather than a crowded restaurant.

• Meet at a walking trail or park for a day date.

• Have a viewing party for a nostalgic movie or meet at a theater for a remake that is a blast from the past. The live-action Little Mermaid had mixed reviews, but watching it with the women that surprised me on my 18th birthday with a Little Mermaid birthday party...that's priceless. Five stars...two thumbs up!