something very special

Friendship isn't a big thing - it's a million little things. ~Author Unknown

Lori, me and Grace.

Our trip to Florida was fabulous in so many ways.

And really the word 'fabulous' can't anywhere near describe those 4 days

staying with Grace and her family.

It was so much more than that.

One of the highlights was being able to finally meet Lori.

(Lori and her daughter Katie Starr)

I first found Lori's blog about 5 years ago when we were starting to paper chase for our dossier.

I soon fell in love with her family and noticed many similarities between the two of us.

We both were married previously and have oldest sons who are exactly the same age.

Now we're in second marriages and each have also adopted a daughter and a son from China.

Lori is probably one of the strongest people I've ever known and has a wicked funny sense of humor!

Deep inside, I knew we'd meet someday...and we did for the first time in person at her daughter Katie's 6th birthday party on Saturday.

Quite a while ago Lori made up this little acronym...'SFAM'...it stands for 'sister from another mom.'

That's what we call each other.

I had the pleasure of taking some of the pictures of Katie's party for Lori and Marc.

(My Grace with Katie Starr)

Lori's daughter Katie is beautiful, funny and very bright.

She's a gentle and kind little girl.

I was so happy Grace could finally meet her!

(Grace with 8 year old Natalie)

I believe I found Grace's blog about 18 months ago through Lori's blog.

Grace and I met in person for the first time a year ago at a photography workshop.

We started chatting through emails and facebook, and eventually phone calls.

Grace and I have very similar parenting styles, a touch of ocd about our houses (which is pretty funny)

and a love affair with our cameras.

And I found out that Grace and Lori live near each other and were already dear friends!

Somehow that didn't surprise me as they both are caring, kind, encouraging and genuine people.

I adore these two lovely women very much who share so much with me.

We all have wonderful husbands, a love of photography, and youngest sons who were born in China. 

Lori's son Ethan -5, Grace's son Liam - 4 and my Will - 5.

Next trip the Dads and little boys will be getting together too!

(The two 8 year olds - Natalie and Grace)

 These two new bff hit it off pretty much as soon as we arrived at Grace's home.
Let's just say there was bonding while playing Barbies.

I could write lots more but am saving that for a few more posts about our friends
and more pics showing our time in Florida!