In 1973, Alan and I and our three small boys moved to Calgary, Alberta, Canada. It was October and it was cold and snowy. I was not happy about the move. We had moved so much in our life together and I wanted to settle in one place, but Alan’s job took him up to Canada.

We rented a house in a small community and settled in. I sent my oldest son to school and some days she was so bundled up that all you could see were his bright blue eyes looking up at me. When I say it was cold, It was really cold.

There just happened to be this lady that lived around the bend who had two small children. I met her one day and for some unexplained reason, we just clicked. We started visiting during the day and then made arrangements to have a family dinner together. Margo saw me through some rough times there, just by being a true friend.

We lived in Calgary for about 7 months and then were transferred here to Tacoma. I was very glad to get back to the United States, but it was hard to leave Margo and John. They made a couple of trips to visit us in Tacoma and what fun we would have. Then they moved to Vancouver Island in British Columbia and they were much closer to us. We were fortunate enough to be able to visit them.

It has been a long time since we have seen John and Margo, but we send Christmas greetings every year. Margo called us a couple of weeks ago after rereading the Christmas letter that I sent. Because of that call, we are going up to Vancouver Island on Monday to visit them. I am so excited to reconnect with them and get to know them again.

Always value your friends. Even if you don’t see or hear from them for a period of time, stay connected. A true friend is hard to find and keep. Treat them with respect and love and they will remain your friend for life.

Have a good week everyone. Remember your Mother’s on Sunday. They are probably the best friend you will every have. Mine has been gone for 23 years and I miss her every day. She really taught me the value of friendship.