"Family isn’t always blood. Sometimes it’s the people who make you feel at home.”
For the February Who Do I Appreciate Challenge, this person came to mind quickly.
I appreciate my friend Anna "Banana" Kruchten and her husband, Gary.
Anna is one of the most positive people I know, and she is a true connector. She loves people, she loves to entertain, and she has a gift for making everyone feel welcome. That is not something you learn, but something you are. And, based on various conversations, I surmise that part of Anna's DNA came from her mother. Anna sparkles when she talks about both of her parents.
Several years ago, before I had ever met Anna in person, I was in Phoenix visiting my sister-in-law. I called Anna and said I was in town and would love to meet up. Her response was immediate and classic Anna.
“We are having a Christmas party on Saturday night. Please come.”
So I got their address, showed up at a house full of people, and met Anna and her husband, Gary, for the very first time at their Christmas party. No awkward coffee meeting, no small talk warm-up. Just walk in, grab a drink, and feel right at home.
From that night on, we have been like family: Anna, Gary, their "boys", Norman and Barney, and me. Barney is now resting in peace.
I have spent many Christmases and special occasions at their home since then. Their house has become my home away from home in Phoenix. You know the phrase “sisters from different misters”? That pretty much sums up Anna and me. Gary and I always enjoy a game of golf when I am in town, too.
There is never a shortage of conversation when the three of us are together. One of my favorite ongoing jokes is that whenever a question comes up, I immediately say, “Let’s Google it.” It has become such a thing that there have been times when I am back home in Wenatchee and Anna calls, saying, “Gary and I have a question, so we wanted you to Google it for us.” 😂
Some friendships start quietly. Others walk right into your life at a Christmas party and never leave. Anna and Gary are those people for me, and I appreciate them more than they know.
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