Sushi seems to be the order of the day for most of us, and, what the hell, Spring Roll starters too.
I look around me and not for the first time, realize how lucky I am. I watch as these lovely ladies stroll in, in twos and threes, laughing and greeting each other with kisses and hugs. The restaurant seems to come to a standstill as people turn to see what all the noise is about.
Charmaine has changed her hair colour. It's lighter now and suits here. The dark colour seemed harsh and she seems lighthearted and girlish as she tells me about her daughter's latest antics. Ashleigh keeps her on the go.
Daria is laughing as she carefully touches her wallet that has a picture of her sons printed on the outside of the wallet. Croation by birth and one of our newer members, she has fitted in perfectly with our mad bunch.
Jayni isn't feeling well, but like the rest of us has FOMO (Fear of Missing Out). We laugh as she recalls the lovely pink bridesmaids dresses she forced her sister-in-law Mel to wear at her first wedding. She has a lot on her plate as she is currently busy organising the annual TV Football Club dance.
Jacky looks tired this evening. She recently celebrated her gorgeous one year old son Noah's first birthday. Her and Claire worked overtime to put together an event that should be written in some record somewhere. It was absolutely beautiful Jax.
JoJo recently returned from Botswana, a weekend away with her work colleagues. As usual she sparkles as she chats animatedly to the rest of us. You look happy Jo.
Kerry ran a little late. Her father recently underwent heart surgery, and she has been worried and busy, running between home and hospital. Alls well though and she relaxes a bit, joining in with the laughter and choosing to eat a healthy meal of what looked like vegetable stir fry?
Mel is off soon for Amsterdam to spend time with her neice Jade, Jayni's daughter. Clearly excited she glows with anticipation. Lucky girl Mel. Enjoy and don't worry about the boys, they will be fine, all three of them.
Sandy is also glowing. She is clearly in love, and deserves every minute of it. You and John are going to be very happy together. We are all going to be watching closely, we know you want to elope rather than face the fuss of a formal wedding. Either way, glad you are happy my friend.
And last but not least (please note, done in alphabetical order so as not to show favouritism), Tashie. She and Jayni share the worry of a Father who is not well. She sits at the table with the by now familiar determined look on her face. She won't let this get her down and between her and her sister they will get him through this. Chin up girl, and try share the load with your friends too.
I know that you all know how lucky we are. I truly hope and pray that we never lose this special group of friends. We have been through some ups and downs, but at the end of the day I know I can call on any one of you any time I need to. I hope you all know that this works both ways.
Love you all. xx
