tears and laughter...

the last two nights have been really special. on monday night, i met a friend for a late dinner to celebrate my birthday which was awhile ago and we didn't have the chance to get together until monday. we had such a great time. it was so nice to have a meal together at one of my favorite restaurants (kabuto's). we were able to kick back and relax and talk without interruption. the poor chef cooking our food couldn't even light a fire large enough to take our attention off our conversation. the sad part is that he was only cooking for the two of us, the rest of the place was empty. we shared many laughs and a delicious meal! (chelsea, thanks for dinner and our sweet time together - it is your birthday dinner next!)

last night, i took a friend out for dinner at the same place - (i can't tire easily of japanese food and their buy one get one 1/2 off coupons really help out!) i took stephanie out to spend some time with her before she moves next week. we had a great dinner -- great food and great conversation. a few sad moments thinking about when we would do this again but still a great time. then we headed over to a friend's house for bible study. i have been attending this bible study on and off for a few weeks. i just love the ladies that are in it. most of them are dear friends of mine from our previous church. and it has been amazing to be reconnected with them. two of the women have been mentors in my life and the others good friends. during this time, we honored stephanie with cards, gifts, prayer and we even took communion together. it was such a wonderful time. it was very sweet. it was very sad. i hadn't cried that much in awhile. but after that we spent a lot of time laughing too. i am still recovering from the dry tired eyes today. but like we learned at a conference - crying releases toxins and i am non toxic for awhile!