For more than 25 years, Jim and Chris Becker have hosted an annual “Friends Dinner,” a holiday tradition that brought together several dozen couples—mostly from church—to celebrate the season at a different restaurant each year. We got some much-needed adult time and the chance to have dinner at some great places all over town.

 Over time, many of us have scattered far beyond our Greenhaven neighborhood, but the gathering has remained a cherished reunion.

A few weeks ago, Chris sent us all a letter saying they originally planned to skip the dinner this year after Jim was diagnosed with cancer. Thankfully, after extensive treatment, he is now in remission, and they decided to host one final “Friends Dinner.” As always, it was a wonderful evening - full of laughter, gratitude, and the joy of catching up with dear friends.

Being in Sacramento also was a chance to catch up with former co-worker Tom Philp and enjoy a breakfast with Eileen before flying back to Long Beach.