16 May 2006

Ya Gotta Have Friends

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I am safe to say that this group of friends is quite…eclectic. I’ve known Marti since Ben and Joe were in preschool together. Here’s my version of the story. We would be standing around staring at each other while waiting for the little boys in their bib overalls to be done with their morning session of preschool. Sometimes the younger siblings would get fidgety so we would loosen their cute little pink snowsuits and let them crawl around in the foyer of St. Marks. Beth and Jennifer introduced themselves and held no reservations about becoming fast friends. It took Marti and I a bit longer. Sad to say we even tagged each other with the typical shores/catholic/side-of-the-tracks labels long before we introduced ourselves. Thankfully she made the first move towards inviting herself in after suggesting a carpool and we’ve been fast friends ever since.

I have been blessed beyond words to be able to call Marti a friend. The memories are plentiful and a flood of amusing, caring, shopping, cottage, camp, crusader and sailor memories come rushing back if I just push my mind’s play button once in a while. And I do.

To all of you whom connect to me through her:
Your smiles, your strength in tragedy, your compliments about my family, your ability to let down your bufont hairdos and throw out inhibitions, your care and concern for the less fortunate, and your laughter inspires me. I do label people…and you all get my girlfriend nametag.

As you can tell by the pictures, I’m approaching insanity and some of you that share ties with us are not far behind. I refuse to go down without a fight, but one can always use a little help from their friends. So if you’re reading this; chances are you have touched my life and I thank you. Now more than ever, I’m looking for a state of mind that siphons out the negative and concentrates on the positive. Therefore, lately I’ve been thinking less and less about gas prices and more and more about how to nurture and cultivate lasting relationships.
I absolutely enjoyed talking and sharing with each and every one of you at Beth's shower. Evenings like that always bring a hint of nostalgia and wistfulness about life's journey and the people that have come across my path. There is, also a tinge of regret that I didn't slow down at times and nurture and grow more in my relationships with girlfriends. But I say, it's never to late!
Looking forward to dancing the night away at the wedding...and if you even think of planning something for the summer without inviting me...I will crash your party.

Best Wishes Beth! Along with the love of your life, may you always have the concern, care, laughter, love, and bond that only a couple of really crazy-ass girlfriends can give you.




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