We all have some level of friends in life.  Some have many.  Others have only a few.  Some keep in touch with friends from the past.  Others find new friends often.  Whatever the level of friend a person has the friendship is always unique.  Special to them.  Important.  I met my first friend on August 2, 1978.  She and I are still the best of friends who speak to each other almost every day.  That’s a long time to have a friend!  My first friend has been there for me throughout childhood, the teen years, and the rocky times of my young adulthood.  She nurtured my love of reading.  She encouraged me to write, participate in athletics, and excel in school.  She put an emphasis on my going to college.  She walked in the pouring rain on my wedding day to find a tow truck when the car I was driving got a flat tire.  My first friend was in the hospital labor and delivery waiting room when I gave birth to my children.  Both in San Antonio and St. Louis.  She helped me to take care of a newborn while I was recovering.  She taught me how to be a mother.  Friends like that don’t come along very often.  Only once.  I owe her everything.  She is my first friend and my forever friend.

My first friend was diagnosed with cancer the week after Ruby was born.  Now it’s time for me to be there for her.  She has fought hard and is currently in remission.  Today is my first friend’s birthday.  Mom, thank you for being my first friend.  I love you so very, very much.

Me and my 1st friend:

Ruby cuddling with her Gran:

Banjo looking at family photographs with his Gran:

Happy Birthday Mom!