O Brother, Where Art thou?

The above picture is one of my most favorites of all the pictures Aaron and I took while he was here. We had an amazing few days together. So amazing that this week I caught myself thinking many times, "last week Aaron and I were doing this..." "at this time last week Aaron and I visited...." "a week ago when Aaron was here..." Needless to say, we had a wonderful time. It was so great seeing him. I hadn't seen him in 5 months-maybe the longest seperation we've ever had. I was so overwhelmed when I saw him that I started to cry. I greeted him at the airport, and held onto him as soon as he got off of the escalator. Sweet Bud.

I haven't been able to do a lot of touristy things, so we filled our days with sight seeing, walking, and more walking. Aaron was a total trooper though. It still amazes me that we're such good friends. Despite our differences, we've grown to enjoy each other's company and support. He was exactly what I needed and was the perfect medicine.

I will use this opportunity to brag on him. Aaron just turned 21 and is already the soux chef at a retirement community restaurant in Austin, TX. Before this he spent 4 months as the EXECUTIVE CHEF at a top of the line resort in King Salmon, Alaska. I always knew he was a great chef, but this really put things into perspective. He's grown into such an endearing friend, and I'm so excited to see what his next venture will be.

I don't think he's ever given himself enough credit. He's smart, handsome, funny, and talented, but most of all he's kind. We've had our differences in the past, but I never once doubted his heart. He's always been generous and would kindly give up anything for his family. Even now, as I look at his picture posted on my refrigerator, I imagine all that's meant to be for him. Here's to you, Bud. You make me smile when I least expect it. You've touched my soul and helped me more than you know.

I had the best time with you.

Love love.
Em

PS: I posted 3 new blogs today, so please make sure to scroll down and read the next 2.

new people to meet, new desserts to eat, new pair of shoes on my feet

Well...my dovey left me. Kristel. She left for her Christmas show this morning. While she's baking in Phoenix, I'll be here with a new roommate, Merryn. It will be tough without her, especially considering she's the one the takes pictures of Darrin and I in the heat of our dance breaks. Who's going to film us? Who's going to laugh at our jams? Who am I going to joke about toots with? Joking aside, I'm going to miss her. I've grown used to my 2 main girls: Lauren and Kristel. They've been such strong, healthy influences. Merryn seems like a total gem though, and I am excited about getting to know her. She's terribly cute and positive energy radiates from her, so I'm pretty sure it's going to be a great match. Until she arrives, I have the place to myself. My mom, sister, and 2 nephews come next week, which I'm really looking forward to. There will definitely be pictures of that visit soon!

Here are some pictures of Darrin's bday celebration and The Frogs photo shoot. I would talk to you about my experience with "The Frogs" but it's still too fresh. I'm basking in the glory of not having to think about what an awful experience it was. I'll be over it soon.

Please keep Kristel in your thoughts and prayers. She'll in in Arizona till January, and then heads out for the national tour of Urban Cowboy: The Musical in February.

Please make sure to keep reading the blogs below. There should be a new one before and after this one.

Love love.
Em