To know you are loved

Cynical and I have made our way home, home from the big city. By big city, we mean Kentucky's largest, Louisville. We left before dawn yesterday in time to make it to a breakfast reception for my brother and his new bride. It was an opportunity to share the holiday with our newest family members and to see some of those that have been around a while. Held at Masterson's in Old Louisville, it was such a pretty venue.

After we left the party, we stopped by two yarn shoppes, Cynical indulging my habit just a bit. We made it to the Knit Nook in the Highlands area, off Bardstown Road and then to Sophie's which was a bit of a trek. Both proved fruitful, as I came away with some yarn, of course, a few books and even a book of stocking ideas for perhaps. . . . next Christmas.

A few wrong turns and cell calls later and we had managed to find the home of a dear college friend. My Dear L is awaiting the birth of her second child, and this visit gave us a chance to not only see the mommy-to-be and the anxious father, but also to play a bit with her three-year-old son. We had time enough to squeeze in a late lunch. I wish I could put into words how much Dear L means to me. Our friendship has managed to survive being apart for the majority of its life. We are able to connect instantly even though it's been months since we've talked in person and we rarely have a chance to e-mail. She's someone I know I can always call upon. She's one that loves me and knows I love her right back. She's a blessing in so many ways, one of those people who knows me inside and out, and will let me be me. I can only hope I am returning the favor. To know you are loved is what often keeps us moving and I know I am loved whenever I hear her voice.

It took a while for us to say farewell and I must admit that I was teary-eyed as I hugged her goodbye. It's not fair that dear friends don't get enough time together. . . and we always crave just a few more minutes.

We checked into the Seelbach, which was lovely and ornate and beautiful. Mall shopping, a little dinner downtown, a bookstore stop and soon we were settled into our bed and luxurious sheets. Our early morning was catching up with us. Our sleep was interupted by other more exciteable guests, but all-in-all, it was restful just knowing we could sleep late.

After an incredible breakfast, we braved the dropping temperatures and spitting snow for coffee before we hit the road.

And now we have a respit before we begin a hectic few days. . . hopes are everything moves along smoothly. And it should. . . afterall I love and am loved.

The stairwell at the Seelbach and the lobby tree.