Old friends

I had a fabulous visit with an old friend last night. Our friendship began when she became Ian's preschool teacher. One year into the special ed program and I was already beginning to sense our future in it. Then came Miss Jen. One of the things that really struck me about her was how much she loved the kids. I'd like to say it was just my kid that she was fond of but I'd be lying. She loved them all. When it was time for Ian to move on to Kindergarten she mentioned that Millie could come to her preschool as well. I just right on it! We've been friends for 7 years. She's one of those friends who I don't see often (she's in CA) but she still remembers everything I've told her. She remembers Millie's birthday. She noticed my new hardwood and my new car and she said I hadn't aged and that I look great. Seriously, who doesn't want a friend like that! A friend that gives as much as she takes. Actually, I would have to say she gives me so much more. She is my (and Ian's) biggest cheerleader. She helps me stay strong and speak my mind when I know things are not right. She gives me great advice and she doesn't blow me off when I tell her that I feel like Ian's education has been the biggest joke. In fact, she agrees. And, she gets it. She gets the pain and emotion and the frustration behind being a mom with a special needs child. No, she doesn't have a child with special needs in fact she's not even a mother yet (but she will be a FABULOUS one someday!) She gets it because she loves these kids too. I love that about her. I feel like Ian is one of the obstacles in many of my friendships. There are people that can't or aren't willing to deal with him. Not Jen. My kids just lit up when they saw her last night. Even Owen who only really new her as a baby and a toddler knew she was something special. And she is. Love you Jen.