15 years ago, I was working as the head teller at the credit union, when a customer came through to deposit a bunch of checks she had been given at a stamp party the night before. I asked her if she sold SU! stamps, because I had been to a party several months previously and would like to host my own. She handed me a catalog and I not only had a party, I eventually signed up to sell it. That customer was Stefanie, and we are STILL friends all these years later.
She arranged a lunch date with herself, her sister, Teresa, and Lois, all former SU demos. I have traveled with these ladies to convention, stayed up late giggling, cried as we shared infertility issues, learned parenting tips from them, and just generally had a good time. Even though it has been years since I talked to them in person, it felt like we had last chatted a week ago when we finally got together.
I missed them so much when we moved to Switzerland. More than I ever let them know. I felt so lonely in a strange place where no one seemed to “get” me. I eventually adapted, but it was never exactly the same as before. I remember feeling so loved and happy when they arranged a baby shower for me when I had Sarah. A giant box arrived full of beautiful cards and thoughtful gifts from all the stamping ladies and I just cried and cried, both with happiness at their kindness and sadness that I wasn’t able to hang out with them anymore.
So this was a very special, and long awaited lunch date. I hope it won’t be another 11 years before I see them again. that would be just too sad. Oh, and the food was good, too!