this is not a rough draft.

This is the time of year I get homesick. Achingly, undeniably homesick. Fall snaps into the air and I think about my favorite memories of growing up in Texas--Friday nights at my high school football field. The cold fronts in Texas always seem to arrive in the middle of the second quarter and led me burrowing into my friend's shoulder. I would think about trekking up to the concession stand to get hot chocolate (that they conveniently only sold on the chilly nights). But, most of the time, I'd just enviously watch other people carry down steaming styrofoam cups because I just never wanted to move from my little huddle of warmth. Those shoulders are some of my favorite places--I've cried on them, prayed near them, and missed hugging them.

My ten year high school reunion is approaching in a few weeks, and I'm sad not to be able to go. Timing, flight and gas costs are just not letting me leave my little home in the Alabama foothills, and for the most part, I'm okay with that. But what I'm not okay with is not being able to be with some of my best friends. Though I haven't lived in Texas for almost 5 years now, they have loved me across the miles. Dropping their plans to meet with me when I'm in town, throwing a baby shower while I was pregnant, and celebrating my little one's birthday and dedication.

After living in Kentucky and really experiencing beautiful autumns, I know that the term "Texas falls" is really just an oxymoron. But I can't help but wonder if those cold fronts were divinely ordained to remind me of the warmth of true friends during my coldest seasons. I miss you guys and wish I could be there. Go Panthers!