Where was Denise?

Where was Denise last week? She was “dark” on social media. She needed to lay low. Why? What happened?

Here’s what I’ll tell you:

Thirty-five years ago, I met a woman and we became fast friends. Our lives were full and our paths crossed almost annually. We made some other awesome friends along the way and over the weekend, we celebrated one of the friends’ birthday, all together. There was no extra time to write, so please forgive me for the gaps in publishing.

We walked, laughed, visited vineyards, hiked amongst the tall trees, ate, laughed, played pickleball, and laughed more. On Saturday night the BIG event (the beautiful birthday dinner) occurred. More laughing, eating, drinking specialty drinks, and a bit of reminiscing. My heart was full by Sunday afternoon when I boarded the plane.

I can’t stress enough how important friends are. They are your family that you choose. FRAMILY. These women have enriched my life in so many ways and continue to do so.  They are all so intelligent, classy, athletic, and loving. Thank you, Maureen, for hosting and planning. Thank you, Jen, for STILL teaching me kitchen, packing, and life lessons. Thank you, Susan, for planning, and playing full out. Thank you, Jeanne, for being a FUN friend (even if I didn’t know how many dogs you’ve had), a great sport for all things surprising, and joining Club 6-0. I love you all so very much.

When you meet a new person, remember, “They are faces until they are your friends.” Then, cultivate, nurture, and incorporate them into your life.

The tales continue to swirl around my head and I look forward to more. Another trip is forthcoming…and more FUN and FAB friends.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Aloha🌺,

Denise