My son had a BFF In preschool also that does not attend the same elementary school.  His mom and I still keep in contact through email and very occasionally meet at the park, or they go to each other's birthday parties every year.  I guess because his mother and I are friends, they see each other more than they would if we weren't, but still.. it's not very often. Did that make ANY sense???

made sense.  And I guess our situation is magnified because Paul's dad and I are really only acquaintances, and like our sons, we don't hang in the same circles.  The boys were/are the only link.  The moms I've made friends with from Layton's kindergarten class are closer friends just because we saw each other every day.  So now that I think about it, I feel a little guilty because I continue to make an effort with those friends because I like hanging out at the park with the friends I'VE made.

That makes perfect sense!  If you don't have the common ground with Paul's dad, you won't be as apt to make the effort.  He had the same problem, with our youngest, Caden.  His best friend and her family moved out of town in November and we haven't heard from them since.  He have sent cards....at Caden's request.  He has made new best friends and continues to build his network of friends - usually sharing with his older brother and tagging along....I say keep encouraging Layton to make new friends - but, he will always remember his first BFF!  Maybe encourage letters - sending a picture to his friend would be cheaper than a gallon of gas!  Just my take on it all....my kids LOVE to get mail from their friends....of course, we always send something back with a self-addressed stamped envelope, like most of my friends are good to include as well.  Good luck!  The change can be a difficult one...been there, done that! 

I seem to agree that sometimes things just are not meant to be. It would be great to be able to squeeze in every friend our children make, but that just isn't realistic. This is sort of a first lesson for him about age groupings as it is bound to occur again when he transitions from elementary school to jr. high, again at jr. high to high school, and big time at high school to college. I do like Mom2CandC's idea about writing letters. That helps you son stay in contact, learn the value of follow-up, and helps him to practice writing or drawing. I think this is extra important as your son isn't that far away from texting and such (*shutter*). Hold on to what you can and move on.

well played, Noah.  Layton already emails, so texting and all that is not far behind

Seeing each other a couple of times a year is great!  And I definitely remember my preschool BFF- she will always hold a special place in my heart.