Madoka and I were best friends in childhood. Our birthdays are only a few weeks apart. We did all the things that early friends do: we dressed up, "ran away" to each others' houses, told each other our deepest hopes, fears, and secrets. She taught me how to say curse words in Japanese. As we grew up and our lives became increasingly mobile, we lost touch. So it was wonderful to reconnect recently and learn that we both are pregnant with our first child (due within 10 days of each other), happily partnered with sweet and supportive bad-ass guitar players, and still as funny as ever. Ben and I had a fabulous weekend when Madoka and Dave came to visit (Dave was playing at the Jazz Showcase in Chicago). Dave and Ben talked fretless guitar, jazz, and chicken-pickin' while Madoka and I shared family updates, memories, and the "joys" of pregnancy. Lots of laughs all around. Thanks for thinking of taking photos, Madoka! Hang in there - we're getting close!
