Defining Wellness

Last night, I got together with a friend who I’ve known ever since elementary school. It’s been a few years since we’ve spent any time together, sadly, because having an eating disorder made it difficult to maintain any friendships. She is so supportive and understanding, though, and it was so incredibly refreshing to be out with a female friend! I don’t think we stopped chatting for more than 10 seconds all night!

We talked about marriage, children, career, cooking, friends, religion . . . it was awesome! She is so easy to talk to and so much fun to be with, and I hope that, this time around, I will not lose her as a friend. She is a special person, and I’m really excited to have her back in my life.

I always thought friendships weren’t that important because I have Carter, I have my family, and I have my pets. But when I think back to some of the wonderful friends I had throughout my school years, I realize: When you meet a good person, a kind person, that person can enrich your life and you can enrich his or hers, too. I have had a few friends who have made me feel unhappy, and in my opinion, those friendships aren’t worth working at. But when you find someone who is honest with you, who makes you feel good about yourself, who encourages you to have fun and enjoy life, and who supports you, it is an absolute joy. Thanks, Stacy, for making me smile and reminding me why friendships are so special.

We enjoyed dinner at Iron Hill Brewery in West Chester. I got so wrapped up in our conversation that I forgot to take photos of our entrees, but the apps were pretty!

I actually didn’t love the salad, which is very strange for me because I usually go ga-ga over salads with fruits, nuts, and cheese. But this one just didn’t do it for me — maybe it was the dressing. I still enjoyed some of it, but my entree (Moroccan spiced salmon and fingerling potatoes) was the star of the show. Stacy’s carrot soup looked awesome, though. I’m getting that next time.

After dinner, Stacy, Carter and I went for a nice long walk with Kai and continued chatting up a storm. It was a wonderful evening.

Here’s to great husbands AND great friendships. Both fill the heart with different kinds of joy.

By the way, be sure to check out Carter’s and my zucchini and squash quesadilla recipe from the other night! It’s a winner!