A little over 12 years ago in a land far away, we met an amazing group of people. We came from different walks of life—military personnel, contractors, and locals—but each week, we gathered together like a family. Our ‘family’ meals were a chance to relax, share stories, and enjoy each other’s company during a time when we were all far from home. For some, it was the only ‘family’ interaction they had during their time in Bahrain.
Fast forward to this year, and two of my favorite people from that unforgettable group came to visit. Though their stay was short, it was such a sweet reunion, packed with laughter, food, and memories.
We kicked off the visit with a trip to Babe’s Chicken Dinner House in Roanoke, Texas, a spot that had been on their restaurant bucket list. And let me tell you—Babe’s did not disappoint. The original location, with its cozy charm, offers a simple but mouthwatering menu: chicken-fried steak, fried chicken (three pieces!), or chicken tenders. The meal comes with a side of salad, mashed potatoes, gravy, corn, and the softest, fluffiest biscuits you can imagine—all served family style. As we dug into our plates, we caught up on life, reminisced about old times - there’s something about shared food that makes everything feel like home.
Afterward, we went next door to the Oak Street Pie Company, a family-run bakery that’s been serving up sweet treats since 2006. We couldn’t resist getting a slice (or three) of their signature pies: Mexican Hot Chocolate Pie, Key Lime Pie, and Chocolate Cream Pie. Talk about a sugar rush!
But the night didn’t end there. A visit to Fort Worth wouldn’t be complete without a stop at Buc-ee’s—because really, everyone needs to experience Buc-ee’s at least once. Whether it’s the endless rows of snacks or the cleanest bathrooms in the world, Buc-ee’s is an experience all its own. After a quick pit stop, we headed to the house where our friends would be staying during their visit.
It was a busy first day, and after a long day of travel, they were ready for rest. But not before the guys made plans for an adventure the next day.
Thursday was my birthday, and I couldn’t have asked for a better way to celebrate than with friends by my side. While Nancy and I worked, the guys went off to Dallas to visit the grassy knoll and explore the Dallas Museum of Art. We wrapped up the day with a visit to Hard 8 BBQ for dinner—one of my favorite spots. There’s something about great barbecue and good company that makes any occasion feel special. Surrounded by loved ones, we shared stories, laughed, and just enjoyed being together. It was a birthday spent exactly how I wanted—surrounded by the people who mean the most, reflecting on how far we’ve come, and savoring the little moments that matter.
Nancy and I both worked on Friday (somebody has to, lol), while Stephen and Yosef went off on adventures once again. They went back to Buc-ee’s, made a stop at Costco, and even checked out a few antique and thrift stores. We all met up for some Tex-Mex for dinner and ended the evening with a cake shake at Portillo’s for dessert. The perfect way to keep the celebration going!
Saturday brought even more fun, as we ventured out to the Fort Worth Stockyards and caught a true Texas experience—the rodeo! There’s something about the energy of a live rodeo that makes you feel like you’re right in the heart of the Lone Star State. We watched cowboys and cowgirls show off their skills, cheered on the rodeo clowns, and soaked in all the action. Afterward, we witnessed the famous longhorn cattle drive, tried on a few cowboy hats, and Yosef had his picture taken with one of the longhorns. It’s the kind of day that makes you feel like a true Texan.
We capped off the day with a home-cooked meal —grilled picanha, roasted Brussels sprouts, and a slice of Texas chocolate sheet cake. We laughed, reminisced, and savored the moment—because sometimes, it’s the simplest things that leave the most lasting impressions.
As I reflect on these days spent with friends, I’m reminded of something that’s become clearer especially over this past year: it’s not the grand gestures that make life meaningful, but the quiet, everyday moments shared with people who matter. We might be scattered across different states and countries, but the bonds we formed over a decade ago remain as strong as ever.
It’s easy to let time and distance separate us from those we care about. So, here’s to the friends who feel like family, to the shared meals, and to the memories that remind us we’re never really that far apart.
Love you guys, and thank you for making this birthday extra special!