Friendship
Ironically, my girls’ trip to Charleston happened the weekend before I was set to discuss the adolescent stage of human development and the environment with my Purdue Global class. Needless to say, the smiles and joy from that trip lingered and spilled over into my teaching.
I am beyond grateful to have such wonderful friends. Truly, where would we be without friendship? This past weekend I celebrated just that with four amazing women who I’m lucky enough to call my own.
My friend Lisa and I go all the way back to middle school. From the moment we met, it was as if we were destined to be besties for life. Oh, the things we’ve shared—the milestones, the heartbreaks, the young adult books devoured, the letters exchanged (I still have them), the nights spent dancing (ALL night long), the secrets still tucked safely away. Our bond is unshakable. LYLASBAHOALM!
Then there’s Stacy. I met her right before my first year at Cabrini, in the uniform shop of all places, and we’ve been inseparable ever since. When she later moved to Minnesota, distance didn’t change a thing. We talk nearly every day—about family, friendship, books, food, trips, and yes, all the drama. Nothing is off-limits. She’s also our official photographer, thankfully capturing all of our amazing adventures and silliness.
I met Lydia, my sister-in-law, soon after I started dating my husband back in 1991, and from the beginning, we’ve been more like sisters than friends. She is witty, kind, compassionate, nurturing, and the best ’80s dancer I know. Our souls were meant to walk this earth together, and I truly can’t imagine my life without her in it. Lydia, I love you deeply—life just wouldn’t be the same without you.
And then there’s my NOLA bestie, Dorria. We first crossed paths when she was a dietitian at Poydras Home, but years later we reconnected at a dinner with mutual friends. It happened to be football season, and when we discovered we were both die-hard fans, I invited her over for a game. From that moment on, we’ve been two peas in a pod.
These four amazing women shared my very first girls’ trip with me—yes, my first!—to Charleston, South Carolina. And let’s just say, what happened in Charleston stays in Charleston. Go Cockers!
So, what is friendship to me? It’s a bond that weathers the highs and lows, sometimes needing mending, but always remaining anchored in the heart. It’s the shared stories, the tears, the laughter, the leaning on each other, the endless hugs, the dancing, the singing, and oh, the giggles. Laughter truly is medicine for the soul.
These women are at the core of my being—and there are many more friends who have touched my life in ways I’ll forever be grateful for. My soul feels stronger, lighter, and more alive because of the friendships I’ve been blessed with.
Reach out to your friends. Tell them how much they mean to you. Hold them close, and never let them go.
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