From Family to Friends

Do you remember the moment a family member became your friend?

Was it when you started sharing clothes? Was it the day you split a six-pack with your Dad during a baseball game? Or, was it when “Girls Night” started to include outings with your mother and sister?

I’ve been friends with these two for as long as I can remember. Every great day together and every phone call when apart are reminders of how lucky I am to have them in my life and by my side.

Of course, it wasn’t always evenings spent sharing wine and watching our favorite shows.

Back in the day, my mom was mom – waking us up in the morning, signing permission slips, and shuttling everyone to where they needed to be. Still the same wonder woman she is today, but without our Sex and the City marathons.

There was a time when my sister, who is four years younger than me, was more like my little doll. I can remember holding her hands and marveling at how small they were. I would try to dress her up, but she didn’t like bows and patent leather as much as I did. Even so, I just loved her to pieces.

Somewhere between the college years and our youngest entering her 20s, the dynamic between the three of us changed. We went from different sizes to all wearing the same shirt. From stealing mom’s lipstick to sharing new makeup techniques with each other. From The Little Mermaid to The Holiday. From baby strollers in Disney World to lounge chairs in the Bahamas.

From family to friends.

This past Sunday was a perfect example of how lovely it is to share a last name with your best friends.

The weather was awesome, so we decided to get out and grab some brunch at a local bistro. (I mean, isn’t that what weekends are for?)

Yup, spring was definitely in the air.

Mom got seated for a bit, while I roamed around.

What I found was nothing less than delicious-ness.

Although, these two are pretty delicious themselves!

After a few minutes, we were seated next to this cozy and eclectic fireplace area. The lights in that cage added a funky vibe.

The restaurant itself was so cheerful. I just loved the bright walls, thick molding, and that fun cutlery art.

The signature wines here are Mirassou. I’m a big fan of their Pinot Noir.

Okay, let’s get back to business.

Time to place the order and start the good stuff – otherwise known as girl talk.

And taking pictures.

No Pinot Noir today. Brunch calls for mimosas. Cheers!

“Take one with the mimosa!”

Breakfast is served! And yes, those are grilled lamb chops with my eggs.

So yum that we all ordered the same thing.

Lamb chops all around!

After a little trip to the dessert case…

…we split this layered, carrot cake. So sweet and fresh!

The bistro is actually located within Orange County Airport, a small airport on the outside of our town.

It was a beautiful day for flying, that’s for sure!

Just one more flower shot…

Too late. The carrot cake was long gone.

As were the rest of the patrons.

Things were getting weird – in a good way.

And for good reason –> blame it on the mimosas.

After a great meal and lots of laughs…we’re out!

All smiles, obviously.

Back at home, “Girls Day” officially came to an end when we were greeted by two of our favorite boys.

Speaking of boys, have I introduced you to our brother?

He’s a keeper, too.