Two Minutes Du Jour

We just returned from a wonderful weekend trip that reminded us of the importance of long-distance friendship. During our trip, we dined at The Boathouse restaurant at Disney Springs and their trademarked saying perfectly captured the theme of our weekend: “There are small ships and there are big ships, but the best ships of all are friendships™.”

This quote became the theme of our memorable weekend. My husband and I reconnected with two of his college friends, who were also groomsmen at our wedding in 1988. Over the years, we’ve stayed in touch by intentionally maintaining those bonds despite the distance. The wives have also become friends, strengthening that invisible “friendship rope” that connects us.

Nurturing Long-Distance Friendships

Our long weekend together, dedicating quality time away from our daily lives was filled with laughter and reminiscing. We used shared interests like the beach as “anchors” to spark conversations. We were also vulnerable, sharing real updates beyond just surface-level chatter.

One key to our enduring friendships? We’re open to how people change over time. We had no expectations of our friends being exactly the same as decades ago. In fact, we were delighted at the surprises.

It’s Worth the Effort

Friendships have a remarkable way of enduring through the years, even when life gets busy and distances grow. When you reconnect, it’s as if no time has passed, and it’s incredibly cool to see how friends’ spouses also become friends.

True friendships can withstand the test of time and distance, and when you come together, it’s like picking up right where you left off.

 If you have old friends you’ve meant to reach out to, take this as a sign. Send that message, make that call, and plan that get-together. Dedicate time together away from your daily life to keep your friendships afloat.

You might be surprised at how easily you fall back into step with each other. After all, the best ships are friendships, and they’re worth every effort to nurture and maintain.

Restaurants We Enjoyed

The Boathouse at Disney Springs – A respite from the crowds with outstanding food, including fresh seafood and Chicago’s famed steaks from Gibsons.

JB’s Fish Camp in New Smyrna – The last time the McKinney family dined here was in 2000; the place is as kitschy as ever, and the food is outstanding.

Waffle House in Davenport, Fla. – What can I say, it’s not a trip to the South without breakfast at the Waffle House; I love the grits! Perfect for Mother’s Day with friends.

Two Links Du Jour:

4 Tips to Stay Connected When Your Friends Live Far Away – NPR’s Life Kit

Reconnecting With Old Friends – Prepare to be Surprised – LKN Magazine (Lake Norman, N.C.)