I had the most amazing day yesterday. I met, face to face, eyeball to eyeball, hug to hug, Amy from Soberbia. Turns out we live about three hours from each other so we met at the halfway point between our respective homes.
First off, this took forever to plan. We planned and then life got in the way...about three different times. This last time was even a challenge. My niece moved to Charlotte this week and asked me to help her on Saturday. I told her sorry, I had plans that were made months ago and I'd see her on Sunday. She wasn't happy but honestly, she's seldom happy so it's okay.
So we met. Originally Amy suggested we meet at a park and just walk around. The closer the date got the iffier the weather got so I saw that the town was having a arts and crafts fair thing and suggested we meet at a Starbucks and then go see what it was all about. Yay! Sounds like a plan.
At 10:30 am I pulled into the Starbucks...at 4:00 pm I left. Yes, you read that right...5 1/2 hours, two pumpkin lattes (each) and a small pastry later we looked at our phones and went, "Holy crap! We've got to head home!" When I say the time flew I'm not exaggerating. I thought about suggesting we go and get some lunch but I really wasn't hungry and frankly, I didn't want to break the spell. It was like two old friends who hadn't seen each other in years and we were just catching up.
It was extraordinary.
Guys, I've done AA and when I was there I felt a kinship with those people because I knew we all shared the same affliction. But I never met anyone from AA that I would spend five hours talking to and not check my watch eleventy million times. I don't know why that is...just that it is. I didn't check my watch (phone) once...not once.
Talking, sharing, getting to know each other, offering advice to each other for different things, celebrating and planning. That's what yesterday looked liked. I wish I could fly to New Zealand or San Diego or London or wherever the hell you all are and do the same thing. I'm a hugger...I wish I could hug you all.
Oh...and look out Annette, next time I'm out your way I'm renting a car...plan on meeting me halfway.
I can't wait to do it again.
Namaste
When are you coming to Canada? I want to meet you! lol
ReplyDeleteOh Jen I would LOVE to come to Canada. It's one of my dream trips. So hopefully soon!
DeleteThat is wonderful. You both come across as incredibly warm people in your writing, and while I've put off meeting others that have wanted to get together with me, I'd have no reservations about meeting up with you. It would be like seeing a really good friend.
ReplyDeleteWhat do you mean "like" seeing a really good friend? You WOULD be seeing a really good friend! ;-)
DeleteSherry
I've had the pleasure to meet a few bloggers whether music or recovery (or both!) related. Every time they've exceeded my expectations as people and friends.
ReplyDeleteThat sounds so lovely! I've been really impressed with how warm and supportive the sober blogging community is. It's heart-warming to know that these are real true human connections here. Hooray for you and Amy!
ReplyDeleteThat was just what it was like! Those hours just flew! It was so great to look into your eyes and see the person who has loved and supported me all this time. It was so good to feel the connection, the Yes! I know exactly what you mean! To talk about sobriety, and family, and tell funny stories about our lives.
ReplyDeleteAgain! I can't wait for the next time. :)
xoxoxo
amy
YES!! I will LOVE that!!! I am so excited!! :o)
ReplyDeleteAmy sounds like such a down to earth person...and we all know that you are! I am so glad you both got to meet and that it just flowed. That is such a great feeling! I love when that happens. Really glad you both got to do that.....and Yay you...doing what you wanted rather than jumping in to help someone. :o) I know how big of a step that is.
Ha!! Doubt I'll get any takers for MN - but ,, yes,, Annette's area always sounds so fabulous.
ReplyDeleteI'm thrilled you did this. Often I think, we all should buy a cheap flight so some central location ,, like, ehh, Omaha or some such thing and just hang out for a weekend and GAB!!!!!!!!!!! Oh, and dine,, then GAB some more!!!
Thanks for sharing that - love it
Dawn! I have a pen pal in MN! Maybe close to you! I'm not sure where in MN, but I'll check.
Deleteamy
Gosh, that sounded so much fun! And yea, when are you coming th Sweden then!? hahaa
ReplyDeleteYay, so glad you guys got together! Loved reading this.
ReplyDelete