Just some kind words....

I was messing around online and stumbled on a writing website and one of the prompts said to list 5 people you know and then to say something that you do not say enough. Or something along those general lines...so I am going to do it because...there just isn't enough in the world designed to make us feel good about ourselves.

1. Allissa, without a shadow of a doubt you are the greatest person I know. I know that you are one of the only people I can be myself with. I am so humbled that you decided to bug me in to being friends. You need to know I am constantly amazed by how strong you are and that I am so proud of you. You will always continue to inspire me to better.

2. Meredith, oh man you are just so awesome. To be honest you intimidated me when I first met you. You have this air about you of being so intelligent and chic. I was really scared that I would never be good enough to be friends with a person like that. But then I had the pleasure to get to know you and you astound me. It is true you are intelligent and chic, but you are one of the funniest people I know. I love the fact I can have an intelligent conversation with you and then turn around and talk about Jon & Kate. I am so excited to learn from you in coming years!

3. Sarah, you are beautiful. I remember being blown away when I first met you. I can see in you a lot of what I want to be. I see a person who's beauty shines from inside out. Who is humble and loving but incredibly intelligent. I see a woman who seeks to live a full life but focuses living that life in service to others. I see an artist who lives to create a beautiful life for all those around her. I am just amazed by your spirit, your strength, and your drive to be better. Thank you for the honor of being your friend.

4. Tara, well lady we go back. Sometimes I think about how far we have come and I boggle at all we have been through and yet you remain my friend. To be honest I wonder about that...are you a glutton for punishment? No, in all seriousness, it has been such a journey to see you grow in to one of the most beautiful people I know. It has been an honor to see you go from the youngest girl in our group to one of the women I respect the most. Your ability to get things done is awesome. I really couldn't think of to many people I would be willing to start a business with, I am so excited for our future. Thank you for being you and giving me a great example for a beautiful marriage. I can only hope to be as fortunate as you are.

5. Tiffany, oh cousin of mine. We have had a time haven't we? Our family has taken us on a roller coaster ride that continues to drive us nuts. You have blown me out of the water. You do not complain and you are such a sweet caring woman. I love the fact you have overcome so much to marry a wonderful man and have one of the sweetest baby girls ever. I love talking with you about MJ and what you are doing to be the best momma you can be. I hope your life continues to be the best it can be so I can continue to learn from you!

Just because I didn't mention you doesn't mean you aren't awesome! I adore all my friends. I love how when I was writing this I could look at each one of my girlfriends and see a common thread in all of them. Each one has an inner strength that shows me that no matter what happens we can pull through. Each has a sense of humor that is worth a stomach clutching, tear inducing laugh. Each one of you has a caring that extends so far beyond yourself. I am truly humbled by my friends. You, ladies, are everything I can hope to be. Thank you for the privilege of being your friend.

"A friend drops their plans when you're in trouble, shares joy in your accomplishments, feels sad when you're in pain. A friend encourages your dreams and offers advice--but when you don't follow it, they still respect and love you."
- Doris Wild Helmering