Growing up in Bay City my two best friends were Brett Ashcraft and Jace Arbuckle. Now to say that we have been bad at keeping in touch would be a big understatement. We have maybe spoken four times since I moved thirteen years ago. Taking advantage of the fact that I am in Texas, I decided to drive to Houston a week and a half ago. I hadn’t been able to get a hold of the Arbuckle’s so I couldn’t stop and see them, but I got to Brett’s house about eleven. Now Brett is only six months older than me, but he has been married for five years this month and has two kids. Now I don’t really know how to describe this feeling because I don’t think I have ever had it before. But I was sitting there talking to him and his wife, Melanie, and I couldn’t have been happier. I was happy that even though we had only seen each other once in thirteen years, I still felt that we were as good of friends as any that I have made over the years. I was also really happy that he is still a good guy. He’s been through some rough things but he is very active in the church and had his head on straight. And I love his wife. I am really glad that Brett ate his words that she “really wasn’t his type” and decided to ask her out, even if it was a week after she bought a wedding dress for a wedding with a different guy. He probably would have never found another girl as cool as her, let alone one that would put up with him for eternity.
Sunday I went to church and happened to see my old bishop, as well as my old friend Chase and his wife. And if you’re wondering what guys do after a six-year absence, they do what makes them feel like boys again. They play catch. And then Guitar Hero of course.
Sunday night the Arbuckle’s finally wrote me back, so on the way back to Fort Worth I made a two hour stop in College Station and got to see Jeannie, Jace, and Alex. We talked about the last few years, about our families and whatever else we could think of. It was a little sad to leave, but really good that I was able to see them.
Having moved so many times in my life has had its challenges. But it has also given me the chance to have friends all over. And sometimes if you’re lucky, you’ll always stay friends.
4 comments:
I love that you got to see those guys. I really didn't think the Arbuckles still lived in Aggie Heaven. Oh I love that place. texas rocks.
Hey Man, thanks for the nice words. It was great to see you. Side note to anyone reading this, I'm not nearly as fat as those pictures make me out to be, but I am every bit as good looking. Anyway, since you are posting this on the 11th and your plain to Europe was on the 10th I'm assuming you didn't get your passport. lol. Some things never change.
Also, you'll be happy to know that the same week you left our company entered the county softball league. I picked up right where I left off, on first base, and it is a blast. I'm glad I got a little warm up while you were here.
Well Brad, it was awesome to see you and we'll definitely have to stay in touch better. I will be out in Tempe on business the beginning of next year, so I'll have to take some time off after work so we can get together again. Take care bud.
This is Brett by-the-way, not my Mel.
Brett,tt,tt,
Are you sure you're not that hefty?? Actually, I don't think you're good looking but I was glad to see your picture and hear all about you. Your dad and I have sort of been keeping in touch. One call or email about every three months or so. I haven't heard too much since he left to play in the sand. Glad to know you and your family are doing well. Brad and I have good taste in women and friends. You and your brothers have always been like sons to me and Bonnie and I love you guys. Keep in touch and stay close to the church (sorry, the Bishop in me is coming out).
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