When Julia changed schools in 7th grade, I was so nervous for her. I hoped her year would in no way resemble my awkwardly, terrible 7th grade memories.

The summer before she started, we wanted her to get to know someone in her class. We met the other new family that was starting in 7th grade. Her name was Julia, also. Her mother’s name was Kathleen, also. Their last name began with an E, also. It was meant to be, right from the start.

It reminded me of when I met my best friend. Jen’s mother walked up to my mother and told her that they had just moved from Chicago and she needed a friend. We sat together in my mom’s 1978 Oldsmobile and rode to Six Flags together. We ate funnel cake and watched all the shows. It was this instant, wonderful, connection.

Julia has been in our lives now for five years. She is a part of our family. Mary Alice is pretty sure that she really is her older sister.

She is artistic and creative and loyal and kind. She loves Jesus fiercely and speaks with an eloquence that is far beyond her years.

It has been a joy and privilege to stand by and watch the friendship with my Julia blossom into something that I’m sure will last a lifetime.

Since love grows within you, so beauty grows. For love is the beauty of the soul.
Saint Augustine