I'm a person who wishes she had more time to put into girlfriend relationships, but my lifestyle rarely allows it. I work with mostly men and have a work calendar that leaves little space for socializing. Yet, I believe these friendships are my true loves in life.
Friday served as my first time back. It was... sombering.
I grew up a total tomboy. I loved sports, dirt and the occasional fight. By the time I reached high school, I was more than a little rough around the edges. Then I found myself at a refined Southern all-girls boarding school. I learned how to hug, dance, share dreams and suffer heartbreaks. I helped girlfriends through major life tragedies, not yet realizing how much I'd lean on them when my dad died. Most of all, I realized smart, kind women should serve as your backbone.
Copenhagen was full of Instagram worthy restaurants.
Due to international moves and a crazy travel schedule, sustaining and cultivating friendships has been difficult over the past five years. Once I realized what I'd lost, I dedicate time and effort into renewing my lady friendships, but it isn't always that easy. The whole process began with writing a blind date note to an upstairs neighbor. She accepted and a lovely friendship flourished. Openly (and a little desperately) putting myself out there helped grow more and more European-based friendships.
It took work; it took humiliation; it took vulnerability. None of which come easy.
I couldn't walk pass a flock with birds without a picture.
But it's paid off. I have some of the most amazing women who I can call best friends. The list isn't long. I hope everyone that is on there knows the depths that I love, cherish and need them. Some are new and some have over two decades of growth (and then there is my sister who wins for putting up with every phase, frustration and locale I've embraced. She's who has taught me unconditional love.)
Copenhagen, you always shine. Even in the rain.
This past weekend, I took a rare girl's weekend. Since moving to Europe, they have been nearly extinct. I grabbed a flight on Friday up to Copenhagen. The theme of the weekend was to eat, drink and have the merriest of times, which included finally eating at the Street Food Market, great brunches, long walks and an evening at Tivoli Gardens running around riding roller coasters and eating cotton candy. Anyone that knows me knows I can't turn down a great (or even mediocre) rollercoaster.
A brief (and yummy!) stop through Frankfurt before barreling back home to Belgium.
And then, I was back boarding a flight home. During a long stopover in Frankfurt, I grabbed some of the best airport food at COA--think edamame, fresh spring rolls and thai beef salad. A few trains and a tram later, I crawled into bed with a very, very crazy week....month...ahead.
“I like these reminders to adventurer like there is no tomorrow. These are the memories that count.”