This weekend was a busy and memorable weekend for us. We don’t usually have an active social life, and if we are honest, we prefer it that way. However, Saturday, we attended my dear friend’s daughter’s wedding after the Ligonier Country Market. It is hard for me to fathom that little Erica is a grown woman, mother, and wife. It is also difficult to believe that my dear Monica is a grandmother. As I sat observing the wedding party, I recollected Monica and Len’s wedding day. Like her mama, Erica chose pink for her bridesmaid’s dresses. Also, like her mama, she created an atmosphere of sophisticated fun. Since our freshman year in college, I have been good friends with Monica and her twin sister Marie, but we have known each other since high school.
The “Schmidt twins” and I have seen each other through the ups and downs of life. Although we often go months without talking, we know we can pick up wherever we left off as if no time has passed at all. I love this about our friendship. We are always there for each other when it counts, when we celebrate, and when we fall apart. These are the people with whom I choose to surround myself. These are the people who make life fulfilling and rewarding. Although life happens and we all get busy dealing with our own day-to-day duties and struggles, it is these people who lift you up when you are down and celebrate the milestones of life.
Another celebratory moment was we also got to meet the youngest member of the Tonkin clan this weekend. One of my two favorite cousins returned home from Florida and brought her adorable little girl, Shayla. Shayla is one of the most beautiful babies I have met, second only to my bean. Miss Shay-Shay has a Buddha belly, big brown eyes, and her mama’s cheerful disposition. I believe I could hang out with this little peanut for quite some time and never tire of her. Although my cousins had a full schedule, they made a point to come to see us. I appreciate this and am so grateful I had the pleasure of meeting little Shayla.
I didn’t get close to my uncles until after my dad passed away. As in true Tonkin form, The Tonkin Boys step up when they are needed most. My Uncle Brian, in particular, has a genuine affection for my bean and always goes out his way to make her feel special. Whether watching scary movies or going metal detecting, he steps in and acts as her grandfather figure. Again, the people who take the time to be there for you make all the difference. My Uncle Brian, Aunt Kelly, Alesia and Niall, and Camilla have tirelessly supported our small business. They have spread the word, helped us in the shop, sold our products, and given advice. They all reached out to us to make sure we were okay when our world was crashing in; they love my bean as their own and go out of their way to include us in holiday celebrations. We are blessed they are in our lives, and I am grateful for them every single day.
Charles Schulz said, “In life, it’s not where you go but who you travel with.”I am happy to travel with the people in my circle. I keep my circle small, but I love them with all my heart. I’m feeling very blessed after this eventful weekend, and I hope you too, dear reader, travel with those who raise you up and support you. As always, stay safe, be smart, celebrate your circle, and keep washing your hands.