Together

We gathered all outside
picked up drinks and kids
balanced on knees
jiggling absent-mindedly

chatted about weather
life events missed, and passed,
grateful to be
here, together, finally.

We passed around the youngest
wide eyed and quietly
taking in the faces
of old friends in new places.

The sun broke through
warmed backs, eyes scrunched,
suncream stained
some shifted into shade

it had been too long - it always was
would likely be again
but friendships like mine
are stronger than time.