go berg!

Tonight I am going to write about my friends. Some say we are a cult; others marvel at our staying power. I think we are simply blessed.

It all began our freshman year at Heidelberg -- way back in 1989/1990. We didn't all live in the same residence hall, although many us did call King Hall home. We didn't all study the same major. (Ok, we didn't all study.) Some pledged a sorority or a fraternity, and some played lacrosse. Some dated each other, and some chose to never consider this. It is difficult to pinpoint the one commonality that brought us together and kept us together. Sure, there were fights, and at least one person who didn't "make the cut" so to speak. But somehow, through graduation, moving across state lines, weddings, children, and even death, we have stayed glued as a unit of friendship and love. How many people can say that they have several college friends that they get together with 2-3 times a year? How many can say that when they leave those friends that they feel an overwhelming sense of blessing?

On Saturday, I got to feel it again. We all gathered at Becky's beautiful house in Cincy for both a donations party and just because it had been awhile since we had been together. Along with some great food and some great company, we were on the receiving end of some terrific orphanage donations and some presents for our kids. Becky and Sean went above and beyond with adorable clothes and some great donations for the House of Hope -- band-aids, soap, detergent packets, alcohol wipes, and toys. I think Eric and Jackie and Bradd and Jennifer had way too much fun getting toys and other donations for the kids at HoH. Tiffany and Rod presented us with crayons, sidewalk chalk, stuffed animals and more. Billie and Dave gave us some incredibly cute clothes -- especially the little girl jeans! And Jen. Jen is one who is almosted as excited as we are and it shows in how she gives of herself. Not only has she already given books/cds for the HoH, but she gave us more for the kids, and she has a large Lands End tote bag on order. To top it all off, she is coming to stay with J while we travel. Now, how can I possibly thank all of them for what they have done? How can I possibly express how much it means? I think the best I can do is return the favor when they need it in their own lives.

Unfortunately, there were a few members of our crew missing for various reasons, and we actually had to cut out early and head home instead of staying over like everyone else. Once again, as we traveled north on I-75 back to Columbus, I reflected on how incredible it is to have these friends in my life. How did I ever get so lucky?

Thanks guys. Love you all.