“There comes a time when you have to stop crossing oceans for people who won’t even jump a puddle for you.” (quote sent to me by my beloved friend Mary)

Since I was a little girl I’ve always longed to have someone jump an ocean for me. I remember dreaming of my prince charming slaying dragons, climbing towers, and overcoming all obstacles for me.  I always saw myself as an independent women who was fighting for my own happiness, but is it so wrong to want a little chivalry in my life. I remember my first episode of rejection happened in elementary school with my very best friend. For some silly reason she chose to play with someone else and we didn’t play with each other for the entire 15 minute recess. That may seem petty but for a young girl I remember feeling devastated she chose someone else to play with. I didn’t understand why I wasn’t enough. This continued on and off with this friend until we were sophomores in High School, when I finally drew the line and was done. I can’t remember all the details, but I remember being in the hallway by our lockers crying. I didn’t know what to do, but then I remembered what class my older sister was in. I went and found her and without hesitation she left her class to be with me. Now I need to explain my sister and I were not close. We had very little in common and were both at the age where being friends with your sister is forbidden. This moment changed everything, and she quickly became my best friend.

When my life decided to crumble, she was once again one of the first I called (right after my parents). It was about midnight that I loaded up my car and left my house with my sleeping kids. We were headed to my parents which was an hour and a half drive. About 20 minutes in it started to snow, and my resolve was quickly wearing thin. I knew there was no way I could make it there on my own. Once again I called my sister and yet again she came to my rescue without any hesitation.

Eventually I’ll get to the story of that night, but I’m just not quite ready yet. Although I will say that although the one person I wanted more than anything to jump that ocean for me has as of yet not even offered to jump a puddle. However in the months that followed I’ve had countless family members and dear friends who have jumped multiple oceans for me at a seconds notice. I’m excited to share so many of these stories over the coming months.