Toni at the Christmas party

"I like your hair" I blurted out after she took my drink order. 

"Thanks I used to keep it short but then I went to Portugal and wanted to grow it like a wild woman."

Omg I like her.

The 5-minute friendship grew from there. She, serving at my friend's office party. Me, the +1 with nothing to lose and everything to gain with this friendly stranger.

We both have 2 emerging adult children, both love to travel, both enjoy the brief interactions you get when when serving. Even if I last worked as a caterer 25 years ago. 

I am convinced that 5-minute friendships are no different than that. Hi, how can I help you, here you are, you're welcome, see you next time. It's a pattern I have grown to love, especially as I struggle with some "real friendships" and the expectations that come with same.

I waved across the room to Toni as I left the party. Me, the last one to leave even though I knew no one. I'll see her next year, for 5 minutes more.

Ashton in the plane

I moved out of the way so he could get to his seat. Young. Young? It's hard for me to say anymore. 

We started some small talk, can't remember exactly how, and within minutes he stuck out his hand. "I'm Ashton," he said, as we shook hands. 

And we're off.

Flying from Victoria, BC to Toronto, ON takes 4 hours, gate to gate. We talked for 4 hours.

Career, UK versus Canada, stiff upper lips, retirement, recent death of the grandmother who raised him, family concerns. 

"Bye Ashton," I smiled as I grabbed my overhead luggage.  

No numbers exchanged or social media connections. Hi, fly, bye.