Finding fairies in North Carolina

Once upon a time there were two friends in Long Beach that loved being with each other very much. They loved to spend their days playing with their small children in the wonderful parks around Long Beach and Lakewood. Their days were filled with lady bugs, gold fish crackers, “fun” coffee and lots and lots of laughter.

One bittersweet day, the friends parted ways when one family made the exciting decision to move and sell their homes in Southern California. The family headed East to North Carolina to set their forever roots and to be closer to family.

Although they were spread apart by many, many miles the friends never lost touch. They could go months without talking, only to find that their friendship could not be tainted by time or distance. They were meant to know each other and bring joy to each other’s lives.

Finally, long overdue, the California friend boarded an airplane to soar amid the clouds until she reached her friend in North Carolina. And once there, they played and laughed with each other once again.

OK, ok, I know that is very corny. But my time in North Carolina felt very surreal and magical. I was with my best friend and her family whom I loved and missed terribly. But it was like no time passed. Being at her house was like being in a fairy tale. She lives on the waters edge of a lake in this big, beautiful house. There are really tall trees and a big rolling lawn. The scenery is breathtaking. And just when I didn’t think things could get any better, there were fairies flying around. Ok, so they weren’t fairies, they were fire flies. But I had never seen them in person. And to be honest, I wasn’t even sure they really existed. I thought they were something you only saw in the dark restaurant when you’re waiting in line at Disneyland to get on Pirates of the Caribbean ride…or in movies. But there they were, flying around the dusk sky. Twinkling just like in the movies. Except I got to catch them!! I was like a kid who found their lost puppy.

The week I spent with my friends was on hikes, and boating, jet skiing, eating at fun restaurants, and drinking coffee with my bestie. It was really a magical trip. Hopefully my pictures reflect that.