{Friendship Friday} A good year so far

Gosh, it's been a good year for friendship so far!

Last Friday I met Sam for a late breakfast (I said "are you going to eat something?" and she said, "of course I am - I'm pregnant" - perfect!) and I forgot to take photos as always because we were talking too much (is there a thing as talking too much?).

Then we met Mrs FF straight after that for lunch. And most importantly, met the lovely little Miss K. I don't know how F's doing it with a broken ankle (strained/ broken, same difference!)!!!

We then had a little half-birthday playdate with Roz and the girls last Sat. All the kids played together so nicely - it's wonderful to see and best of all, we could actually relax.

That's 3 friend dates.

Today we had the boss's farewell lunch (YES!) and when I got there, I realised it was literally around the corner from another friend's house so I phoned and left a message that I was in the area and if it would suit, would like to pop in.

I don't usually pop in!

But it all worked out - I only waited about 10 minutes for her to arrive as she was out - and we spent a good 90 minutes catching up!

And then tomorrow Robyn and her kids are coming over. I can't wait. I've actually prepared things for the kids to do.

So look at that - 5 friend dates and my goal is only 25 for the year.

I was thinking about why it is that I prioritise these things and also prioritise doing nice things for my friends. I suppose it's because I want to show in word AND deed that I do care deeply about the friendships. This is my way to make my friendships shine.

As for this friend, please pray - she's having kidney stone trouble. I've never suffered from kidney stones but it sounds awful!

Have you set any friendship goals for 2014? 

If not, I'd like to encourage you to CONNECT more in 2014, whatever that looks like for you.

Don't just be a voyeur on FB - instead, leave encouraging comments and be a thoughtful and considerate friend. I've had so many conversations just this week where people have said to me they're not on FB anymore because they find it empty and meaningless. And I agree - it can be. But use the tool and be intentional about your friendships.

Don't simply click like on FB/Instagram - write why you like the status or photo. Use the time to leave a word or two to encourage your friends. I started this little habit years and years ago - I set a goal everytime I go on FB - to connect with at least 6 people (that means leaving decent comments, not "great!", messaging privately, writing nice birthday messages, praying and telling people I'm praying for them, etc.).

Where is all this coming from? God!

(off my soapbox now)
 
PS I haven't even looked through any January photos - I had a quick squiz to get these two - because I've been obsessed with getting 2013 wrapped up, printed, backed up and off my computer. I do love a clean slate!