Granny and the GeeJaws

I learned a new word last night in conversation with women I have known my entire life. The word is "GeeJaw" and it is technically defined as " a do-hickey, thingamajig, or whatnot." This is a useful word to know due to its extreme flexibility, and potential for varied application.

Kara and I were invited to join our mothers at their monthly dinner get-together. Yvonne is Kara's mom, Karen is mine, and Polly is their friend whom we've all known since the Gerald Ford administration. Karen and Yvonne met during Watergate. There will be a quiz.

Friendships on this scale beat out the commitment level of most marriages, although honestly compels me to note that once-a-month dinners do not allow for much in the way of conflict to develop. Still, consistent conversation spanning more than 40 years is a substantial investment. In my mind, these women have always looked the same, they have always been in my world, and they are a reality as tangible as any Aunt or Cousin. My children know them, to varied degree, they are The Grannys. There is a great deal of comfort and permanence in the presence of those who held me when I was a little girl.

I had the delight to sit next to Yvonne during dinner. She's a quiet sort, and a great listener. Like so many folks of that ilk, she is very worth listening to. She has a gentle way of talking, and a Giant Strength of Character that belies her calm surface.

I'm pretty sure that I ought to tell you all of the deeply life-changing reflections which were inspired by last nights conversation, but I haven't the time. While composing this eloquent tale, I have also been Googling my blog name + Yvonne to try and find pictures of the last time Kara and I joined the Mothers for dinner, ( I think it was during George W's administration, in case you were keeping track of the political influence on our life-long relationships). I came up empty, but have been meandering down memory lane, and have consequently spent every moment allotted for blogging this morning. Therefore, I must away to attend the responsibilities of this Wednesday.
May you have a wonderfully joy filled day, and may your friendships outlast Obama. Amen.