by It’s kind of quiet in a relaxed boring kind of way tonight. The Scattergoods, at least Judi, Emily, Ben and Annie, came to visit for a few days. What would we do without good friends? Judi and I have been buds since the twins were 9 months old. She was prego with Ben and as soon as he was born the boys were best of friends. It’s amazing how well people can get along when there’s no BS to have to deal with. Judi and I met at a time when I realized my parenting philosophy was not the norm…such as disciplining your children to teach them respect!! We met at McDonald’s only to find out we lived one street over from one another. The first test of our friendship future came when I decided to walk over unannounced and found her house as untidy as my own. And with twin 9 month old boys that’s a hard act to follow. That same day we went for a walk around the block and laid down the rules. She and I were to treat each others kids as our own. It has been perfect ever since. I’m not saying we go around beating each others kids, but the fact that her kids know that when I say, "No" that’s the end and visa versa keeps everybody in check. That was a problem we were both having prior to our meeting.
She has moved twice since we first met, and because of mutual finance issues, visiting often has never been a possibility. She is now only 7 hours away, and with me home schooling we could drive up and visit a lot more often. Yeah!
When I think of all the girls, women, colleagues I’ve ever known, Judi is my best bud. The only other person to come close was Carol, she too was a Godsend. Carol worked with me when we lived in Portland, Oregon. I think she was the mom I needed since mine was 2000 miles away.
Well I am tired in a good way and know I will sleep with good memories of the Scattergood visit. Here are a few pics. 
Great pics. Thanks for sharing them. You and Marc are doing a Great job raising your family. (I like that fish:)