Today I watched my friend drive away. Far away. To a place she needs to be, from a place she couldn't stay.
This morning, while packing up the last few things we had to take care of, she said to me, "I can't believe I met you guys in my computer. Some people look for friends like this their entire lives, and never find them!" And it's true.
We were basically right down the road from each other this whole time, and never would have known. The Internet can be a crazy place, full of crazy people. But, sometimes, those crazy people are close enough, and honest and real enough, that they become real friends.
Yesterday and this morning, with all of their ups and downs, were the best way I could have brought in the New Year (and hey! Free futon!).
I cried as I saw my friend drive away. Sad to see her go, but happy that she's getting a fresh start, and knowing she'll be happy and that this is the best thing for her.
Jen, all the best to you, and we'll come visit, I promise. You take care of you now. Focus on your happiness and you will find it.