A Long Lost Friend in Sydney

Event on May 26 -
written June 2

It has been 17 years…. 17 years since my friend Rowan lived in Pampa Texas and went to High School with me. He was 2 years my upperclassman, but he was 1 of only 3 foreign exchange students at our school that year. 17 years… wow, how time flies.

When I called him, I received his answering machine. He called back literally 1 minute later. He couldn’t believe we were in town. He said “of course I remember you… how could I forget the Horton family?” He reminded me of several experiences he had from that year, and graciously suggested that Lindsay and I should join him for lunch the following day where we worked, a place called “The Oaks”.

In our journey to find “The Oaks” restaurant and pub in the Sydney area, we walked through Hyde Park, around the beautiful Botanical Gardens, and past the famous Sydney Opera House. It was awesome! We then proceeded to walk across the Harbour Bridge to take in some breath taking views of Sydney and the water all around. After our walk (about 2 hours worth), and a short taxi ride, we arrived at “The Oaks” and caught up with a voice from the past – Rowan. My only Australian friend in Sydney, it was fantastic to relive some old times with him, catch up on the whereabouts of friends, and explain life’s happenings through the past decade and 7 years.

It’s funny how once in a while you will have a snap shot of life. From one point in time as a sophomore in High School, to now, just turning 33 years old today, life certainly can fly by. This reminiscing with Rowan reminded me of two lessons: “don’t take life for granted” and “Live life to fully enjoy the gift (ie life) that God has given us.”

Rowan now has a beautiful baby girl of 2 years old, and has risen through the ranks to be the manager of a really beautiful restaurant. The oak tree in the back garden, alone, is well worth it to see The Oaks! If you happen to be in Sydney, you must go have lunch or dinner at The Oaks. It has great pizza, but even better people. Memorable times are being had down under.

God bless,

JB