Bryony's little boyfriend Mateo moved away with his family this week. We said our final good-byes in their front yard the evening before they left. I teared up, and gave Mateo's mum, Pam, a good long hug. Bryony and Mateo said unwitting "good-byes." As we pulled away from their house, however, Bryony shouted, "Mama!" When I answered her, she repeated tearfully, "Teo? Teo? Teo?" She had never called out for her little friend before, so something told me she knew this good-bye was going to be the last one for awhile.
Bryony and Mateo have known each other since they were about seven months old. Bryony and I met Teo and his mama when we were all volunteering at the local community greenhouse. The kids got the affectionate nickname "Garden Babies" from the staff because they played in the dirt all the time.
Pamela became a dear friend. Pamela, you taught me so much about what "be(ing) good to people!" is all about. You and Luke set the example. Thank you for your kindness, wisdom and friendship. I miss you already.
Pamela and I have jokingly said that we'll re-introduce arranged marriages in this country just to make sure we are in-laws one day. We've both acknowledged that it smarts a little to know that our babies will likely not ever remember each other, despite their sweet baby relationship now. How many little friends did we both have as children whose names we don't even know now as adults? Our kids might one day look through this blog, or a photo album and ask who that kid sitting next to them in the picture was. I'll just smile.
Even if Bryony and Mateo don't grow up knowing each other, I hope to never lose touch with my friends Pamela and Luke. You guys are an amazing family, and I feel so lucky to have you as friends. But alas, no adios, but rather, "until then..." :-)
1 comment:
this makes me cry. thanks to you guys, for being so dear to us!
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