Sometime "friend" is just another word for family

My friend Erica came to visit us. Seeing as she lives in Brussels, that her husband and two kids had to fend without her for a week, and that this was her 6th trip here in the 41/2 years that we have been here, this was no small thing.  She came to keep us company while we weather Chris' absence, to squish my kids, and to lend me a giant helping hand for six wonderful days! We played house with the kids, and I played hookie from work on weekdays while the kids were in school and we saw movies, had lunch, got pedicures, went shopping, and had the most wonderful break!  For her help, love and friendship, I am forever grateful!