It was a busy weekend with Girlfriend Fridays, Saturday work days, Sunday Church days...but All I am thankful for. Although, I could do without the headaches that sometimes interrupt my fun...
But my post today is one that fits the 'you had to be there' criteria, so I won't get into many stories :o)
I started attending Willow Hill United Methodist Church youth group when I was in grade school. I became more involved when I was a freshman in high school. And would walk to church on Sunday Mornings because it was close. I wanted my independence... I could not have been more blessed to live so close to a place that would become my home, my family. The youth group became my core group of friends. Although many of us have gone different places in life, some of my closest friends began in this group.
Us with our Flamingos....2001. This was near the beginning of our crazy memories together
My first missions trip with my loves!!! We also went with our friends from Pekin United Methodist Church. Let's just say, the memories were plentiful and we did not do a very good job staying out of trouble. Summer 2001
Brittany, Me, Kari, Janine, and Amanda celebrating Brit's 16th birthday. Yes we blindfolded our sweet friend and took her to random places, made her do stupid things, and then she had to guess where we were. She was a trooper.
My last missions trip with WHUMC. I believe this was Summer 2003
We went on mission trips together, placed plastic pink flamingos in peoples yard as fundraisers, had the cops called on us, played sardines in the church every sunday, and could be found together at least 3 days a week if not more. There were quite a few of us in the family, but my closest friends who are my 'lifer friends' would have to be Ryan, Nick, Brittany, Howie and Beth, the Duffy Fam, and Kari (and her whole family). These are people I can go months without seeing and not miss a beat. Love them all dearly.
The bestest Ryan....My 21st birthday
Ry, me, Nick, and Janine...probably in 2005 at my brother house.
My Sweet Howie and Beth on one of our many dates. My guess would be 2006 or 2007
The YGP picture taken at my wedding somehow didn't include me...not sure how that happened. But I have one of my favorite 'big brothers' Nick and Ryan. 2008
Us at Ryan's wedding....Nick, me, Ryan, Beth, Howard
My beautiful Brittany...my twin, my bridesmaid. I am so lucky to have you as a friend, love you dearly.
Sunday I was blessed with a small reunion with a few from our group. Thank you Howie and Beth for treating us like the kids you never had. I can't speak for everyone but I know for a fact I would be lost without you both.
Youth group reunion/Howie's surprise 50th birthday party (Summer 2009)
I cannot begin to address the guidance I received from everyone, friends as well as youth leaders. From high school drama, to friends, family, college, and life...Howie and Beth, Kari, Kev and Cath, you have all be life savers. Love you all dearly.
Sweet Andy, a beloved member of our family, love you and miss you more than I can ever explain. Can't believe it has been over 5 years...you would however be proud of us.... It never fails you become a topic that brings smiles to our faces whenever we have reunions. We Love you and are blessed by the few years we got to call you family. Can't wait to see you again someday.
I am grateful for God placing me in this family and for the friendships that will last a life time. All of the best memories of high school (and still today) sparked from this group. Love you all and so glad I was able to spend a little bit of time with some of you on Sunday.
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