jenny-wren

Earlier this afternoon I noticed I'd missed a call from Jennifer.  I've known Jennifer since we were freshmen in college:  she used to live next door to me in our freshman dorm at Texas A&M University.  Between us, we have 4 marriages, 3 kids, 2 law degrees, 1 adoption and a nasty bout with breast cancer.  Jen is one of those friends who I go for ages without seeing, and then when we get together, it's like no time has passed.

I immediately called her back.

"Are you in town?" she asked.  An odd question, since she lives in San Antonio, three hours' drive away.

"I'm in Houston," I said.  "Where are you?"

"I'm in San Antonio -- but I'm on my way in!  I have a business meeting in Houston tomorrow -- I was wondering if perhaps you'd be free to meet up tonight?"

Naturally, I would move oceans to see Jen, so we met for dinner.  And as usual, we spent several hours giggling and laughing like we were 18 again.

"You know," I said as the evening was drawing to a close, "we've known each other 25 years now."

"Of course not," she said immediately.

I stared at her.

"Karen, there's no way ... OH. MY. GOD."

And in those 25 years, it's always good to see you, my friend.

(P.S.  Those of you in Houston, I hope Bossy and I get to see you tonight, at Cafe Brasil on 2604 Dunlavy at 6:30 p.m.! I'd love to take a photo of that beautiful face of yours.  So seriously.  COME.)

Song:  Overjoyed, as performed by Esperanza Spalding.  Because when you learn of a young woman with a giant afro, a stand-up bass and a voice like an angel, you should let other people know about her, too.  Hat tip Mrs. Kennedy.