It had been two and a half years since all six of us had been together. After enjoying years of monthly dinners and girls trips post-college (Go Cougs), COVID, and far too depressing zoom calls had kept us apart for far too long! So, we nailed down a weekend and headed north to a VRBO on the beach complete with a hot tub. It was exactly what we needed to reconnect - no kids, no spouses, just six sorority girls laughing hysterically like no time had passed.

We were greeted by two eagles making love on the power line in front of our house, which we all took as a good omen for the weekend ahead.

Our “round tables” where we update each other on our lives, are usually interrupted by a frustrated server (rightfully so) or a disgruntled fellow diner who isn’t happy with our combined volume…which can get intense. Luckily, we found a dive bar that handled our rowdiness quite well, complete with joining in our very loud performance of “Don’t Stop Believing” that we happy sang along to once our hanger was replaced with beer and fries.

From driving up, finishing off emails, and making sure all the many details of life at home were taken care of, I was finally able to turn off my brain by Friday night.

One friend came prepared with matching slippers, which really set the vibe. The fact that nobody needed us, there were no chores to be done, and we could have countless uninterrupted conversations, felt like finally getting fuel in a car after it had been running on fumes for miles. But the real prize of the weekend was a game we played on Saturday..(see video). I highly recommend this for any game night or get-together because it’s amazing. That’s all.

The days went by far too quickly and after the last few years we’ve had, I truly soaked in every moment, hoping to never take for granted the ability to see my friends that feel like family. My ride or die ladies.

No matter who we continue to become, through changes, grief, celebrations, and losses, it’s amazing to have a soft place to land and know that no matter what, we will be there.

We can’t change how hard life is, we can’t stop the appearance of wrinkles, or how dated our song choices and stories have become, but somehow, we stay committed to each other. And for that, I will always be truly grateful.

Whidbey Island Girls Weekend Recap

@susangofficial