Only Five? Barb's Greatest Hits

Its a Ventage Birthday!  The lovely Miss Barb had a birthday yesterday.  I have known this dear girl since she was 16 years old.  I can say with confidence that there are far more than five things we adore about her - but here are a few:

5.  She is my cooking accomplice.  When my kids were born, it became difficult and expensive to get a lot of nights out to do big dinners, as was our habit before said children.  Barb and I devised a solution - the Year of the Feast.  Every month, we planned elaborate menus and made so much food we were stuffed for days.   It made the transition to Mom of 2 under 2 a lot easier for me because I always had something to look forward to.  Did Barb mind the chaos? Finding food that the kids would like?  Having lots of little helpers?  I don't know, but her menus, food and fellowship was enjoyed by our whole family.  In fact, I think we should have a year of the Feast Part 2.  

Barb even touched meat with bones, for the feast - she was that committed to making it happen. 

4.  Road trips - Barb and I have been on many.  Most memorable?  When I was pregnant with Dorothy we decided to go on Cheese tours.  We were envisioning the wine tour experience and instead got quite a lessen in milk marketing and dairy business.  It was a hoot  - and I loved every very weird minute of it.  Barb had lists, and maps, and detailed plans, all of which lasted until our first major debacle of the first day.  We just went with it and laughed the WHOLE time.  

3.  Calm in the Storm.  Other than my husband, there is no one in my life who can grab my hand and in a stern voice say - you can do this - and make me believe it.  When times have been tough she has not been afraid of my emotions, she has listened to me cry.  She has offered solutions but not judged.  She has been everything a friend could be.  I hope you all have someone like that in your life.  

2.  Greatest Auntie ever.  My children adore Barb.  They love to make her laugh, play games with them and read books.  She is a constant and steadying force in their lives.  She taught them that it is ok to have ice cream for dinner once in a while, she risked her life to teach Luke how to roast marshmallows, she indulges Dottie's inner princess, and has been thrown up on by Charlie more than anyone.  

1.  Past Present and Future.  I knew the Barb who skipped class and hated high school.  I knew the Barb who threw up in her yard after celebrating her last final exam.  I know the Barb who was the first person besides Mike to hold all my babies.  I know the Barb who is rising above some very petty and juvenile people in her life.  I know the Barb who is making a real future for herself that she is and can be proud of.  I will know the Barb who eats Thanksgiving turkey with my family when she is 70.  I will know the Barb who calls with triumph in her voice.  I will know the Barb who will be my best friend.  Forever.  

Love you babe.