So, after coming home from Fort Jackson, Amy and I got one good night of great sleep. That was it. After that, we stayed up nearly all night every night. It was like a never ending slumber party. I’m talking, going to bed at like five o’clock. We only had a week, after all. We had to make the time count. So, in teenage girl slumber party fashion, we stayed up all night talking, giggling, and listening to music. It was great. If anyone else wants to come have a slumber party with me… Seriously, though…it was awesome.
We mostly hung out at my house, but we did venture out a time or two. We of course had to go buy coffee. It was definitely not up to snuff for Amy’s coffee-snobbish ways, but it got her through the day. We also went to church on Sunday.
One of the best parts of the trip was when we ditched dropped off my kids at my mom and dad’s and went to Frozen Head State Park. We hiked up to the first waterfall, and then a little ways further up towards Panther’s Branch. It was really, really beautiful up there. I would have took pictures, but, well…the humidity. We had some majorly inappropriate waves and curls going on. Unfortunately, neither of us had a hat, so none of you get to see pictures. I did take a picture or two of some forest creatures we saw along the way. I’ll post them a little later on my photo blog. Cause I know you guys want to see my picture of the flaming dart lizard. Right? Well, Dad said it was a salamander or something, but I thought it looked more like a flaming dart lizard.
On Tuesday morning, I, unfortunately, had to take Amy back to Nashville to catch her plane. Even more unfortunately, I did so without sleeping at all the night before. I know, I know. We just couldn’t shut up. She kept me awake on the way there, and I think the fervent praying and multiple face slappings kept me awake on the way back. It was really sad to say goodbye to my friend. I don’t cry much, but I really felt like it when she left. It’s rare to find a friend that you immediately click with and develop a deep friendship so quickly. I don’t know that I ever have before. The miles between us are many, so I’m doubly thankful that we got to have our excellent adventure together.

I know I titled this “The Conclusion”, but, in all honesty, it’s more like the end of the first half of the story. Amy’s coming back to visit again the beginning of next month, and this time she’s bringing her adorable kiddos with her. Our friend, Heather, thinks we are insane. Everyone at church smiled their “I’m smiling and nodding but you are so nuts” smiles, and my brother just outright told me that I am crazy. Oh, well. I think they’re all just jealous!

So, until next time, be good, People, and stay tuned for the next installment of our totally excellent adventure.

Rachel and Amy’s Excellent Adventure….To Be Continued…