Why let a few thousand miles stop you from hanging out with friends?

That is definitely the philosophy that some friends of mine have taken since we've moved from Virginia to Texas. Especially my friend, Renee and I.

We have managed to see each other at least a couple times a year and sometimes more, even though I moved away 3 1/2 years ago. I appreciate the investment of time and money that she and her whole family make to stay close to our family! When you find true dear friends, it's always worth it to stay connected!

So last Saturday, Ainsley and I flew into town for a visit. After dropping all my stuff, and my sweet Ainsley, off at their house (thank you so much Chris for watching the kids!), Renee and I were off to Richmond for a Jars of Clay concert.

Someone took the above picture of us when we were in the VIP line to meet the band. Woo Hoo!

Here is Renee and I with all the guys from Jars. The other girl standing with us is Jena, who is the executive director of Blood:Water Mission. It was so great to finally meet her in person, also!

The guys were very nice! They even stood up to give me hugs when I got into the area and said it was good to see me again. Talk about making me feel special! (Remember, Mark and I got to spend some good time with them last October and then I was in their Christmas videos.) But still, you never expect people to remember you by name when they meet so many people. But it was nice. And I was happy to introduce Renee who was going to her first Jars of Clay concert. (Thanks for going with me, Renee!!)

Here's a little clip of their song "Closer" which I recorded for Ainsley because she really likes this song and can sing it quite well herself! =)

During the encore, they played "Worlds Apart. " This is one of the songs from their first album and listening to it helped make them my favorite band oh-so-many years ago.

Here are some of my favorite, thought-provoking lyrics:

All said and done I stand alone

Amongst remains of a life I should not own

It takes all I am to believe

In the mercy that covers me

Did you really have to die for me?

All I am for all you are

Because what I need and what I believe are worlds apart

If you're interested, click here for more of the lyrics of Worlds Apart.

As you might can see, it was a great show. They played almost everything from their new album and several favorites from throughout the years. We had a wonderful time!

And guess what!? The fun kept right on going. After church on Sunday, it was time to get ready for a party that Michele hosted. It was a good chance to get caught up with a few friends that I hadn't gotten to see in quite a while--and catch up with or meet their kids, in some cases, too!

Michele is truly a hostess extraordinaire!

Look at these yummy treats Renee made for the party! They are s'mores on a stick. And they were so good!! I think she made them for the kids, but luckily, Michele had popsicles for the kids and the adults chowed down on these s'mores.

FRIENDS

This cute little guy in the next photo is named Brady. He just turned 6 years old--I took care of him when he was a baby!!!! He is so big now. And as adorable as ever.

What a blessing that whole afternoon and evening was. Thanks Michele and Renee for working so hard to put it together and for everyone for being there!

My Texas cowgirl (ok, she was born in Virginia!) had a great time, too!