My friend, Shannon

Once upon a time, in a big town in Florida, there were two little girls (Rachel and Shannon) who played together every Sunday and Wednesday in the church nursery. As they got older, they started having sleep-overs. They were best friends from age 2 on! Shannon's daddy was "Brother Bill" and her mommy was "Miss Paulette." They were the pastor/wife of the church we attended. They welcomed Rachel into their home as though she was just another one of their kids! Rachel's mom loved Shannon as her own as well! 

After many years of friendship, Brother Bill and Miss Paulette moved their family out of town. Rachel and Shannon were crushed. Their entire lives were spent together...granted they were only in elementary school, so it wasn't THAT many years, but nonetheless, they were crushed!

THEN... silly pastor parents moved the family to Texas! Not only were they separated by different cities, now they were separated by states!! Once again, crushed little girls... BUT they made a promise to keep in touch by writing and calling. (this was before texts, email, and facebook). Even though weeks would pass between their conversations, they remained the bestest of friends. 

Years and years passed where Rachel and Shannon would never live in the same town again, but they maintained their friendship! Shannon got married in Florida- Rachel flew in from Colorado because she "wouldn't miss it for the world!" Rachel got married in Oklahoma- Shannon flew in as one of her bridesmaids- her dad flew in to officiate- because Rachel couldn't imagine getting married with any other minister!

The girls women, began their families. Shannon had 2 great kids... a boy and a girl. Rachel had 4 great kids... 3 boys and a girl. Shannon is still in Florida with her amazing husband and kids. Rachel is still in Oklahoma with her's!

Over the last 33 years (yes, they are OLD), they have managed to maintain a FANTASTIC friendship. When they talk on the phone, they pick up where they left off...as though it hadn't been weeks since they heard each other's voices. They still send letters and cards just to say "howdie, I love you!" God brought these girls together and they formed such a terrific relationship that even after all of these years, they're still the best of friends...

On this day, Friday, October 19, 2012, 

I wish 

MY BESTEST FRIEND, 

SHANNON ELAINE WALLINGFORD THOMPSON

the best birthday a girl could dream of!
You deserve it, Shannon... I love you!!!