Distance is irrelevant.

In the case of certain friendships, distance is irrelevant.

Andy and I became friends with Zach in eighth grade. In fact, we were friends with him before we were friends with each other. Zach’s dad was in the military and they moved to Ohio long before we finished high school. We’ve only seen each other three times over the past 17 years, but we’ve kept in contact through phone, email, and most recently facebook. Although sometimes months will pass without any communication, we always pick up right where we left off. I guess that’s what determines real friendships.

Zach, his wife Karen, their three daughters, Zach’s brother, his wife, and their three children came to town August 11-18. The first half of their visit, the beach was absolutely perfect. Hotter than the hinges of hell, but incomparable beauty. The second half of their visit, we had a tropical storm. The storm was a total wuss, but it did bring a lot of rain. I hated that for them, because you always want it to be perfect when friends are in town. Especially when they’re dropping a load of cash to stay in a beach house.

We had a great time with their family! Here are a few pictures from the week.

Their daughter Sarah is one week older than Jonah.

Their daughter Anna is three weeks older than Noah. Do you see a trend here? If Karen gets pregnant again, I better watch out!

Their daughter Jessica is 16 and WOWZA is she cute!

Taylor and Jessie really hit it off, despite the 4-year age difference. They both dance and send 10,000+ text messages per month, so… you know.

Karen and I really hit it off, too. She’s fantastic.

Nathan thought Jessie was hot. Shocker, I know.

Andy and Zach had a good time catching up while serving as human jungle gyms for their toddlers.

Anna tried talking to Noah, but his vocabulary is still limited to 3 words. She didn’t seem to mind.

She was more interested in hugging, anyway.

When Noah lost interest, she clung to her daddy instead.

pool water + daddy’s hat = delicious cocktail

I like the irony in this picture. Little rule breaker! LOL

Karen and I discussed the babies. Sarah cries most of the day, but pretty much sleeps through the night. Jonah doesn’t cry much at all, but still wakes up every 2 hours all night long. We couldn’t agree on which scenario was worse.

See that phone? Yeah, no longer mine. I totally got an iphone for our anniversary. Heck yes!

When Jonah woke up from his nap, I let him experience a pool for the first time. Thankfully there was a shaded spot. He didn’t love it, but he didn’t hate it, either.

The pool where they stayed was rather impressive. It looks better in the sun light. Can’t you tell from the picture how intense the tropical storm was? I jest. The storm was such a non-event.

Nathan’s buddy Jared came with us to the beach. Those two played together about 10 hours per day all summer. It’s killing them that school has started. At least they’re in the same class. (Side note… could that water be any more perfect? Seriously.)

Jessie is adorable. I heart her. “Mom, you’re not Dane Cook.” Come on, Karen. Admit it. It was funny.

Noah tried to get naked. Taylor intercepted. Nothing new.

In the case of these friendships, distance is irrelevant. Although it sure would be nice if they lived in Destin!