Diamonds Are Not a Girl's Best Friend!

The dust is almost settled! They say it takes a village and this move certainly did! This post will be about thankfulness. This post will be about friendship. I love woman, always have. I know there are ladies out there who don't feel the same way because they may feel threatened, or are overly competitive, even perhaps the most common reason, embodying that green-eyed monster of jealosy and envy. I believe they are missing out on one of the greatest gifts that God has to offer. I have been blessed to have many people care about me and it is a blessing to care about them.

Lauray has been my rock throughout this entire ordeal. She has been there every step of the way. A shoulder to cry on, a sounding board, an organizer of painting and moving parties, a house cleaner and a best friend. It is amazing when you can have friends in your life that you can count on, when you agree and disagree, during the ups and downs, through thick and thin. The amount of emotional drama that I have been through over the last several years I would not even wish on my worst enemy. I have been so lucky to have been graced with this special friend who has stuck by me at my best while doing everything to get me through the worst. (12 year friendship)

Leslie and Kellie have given so much of their love to me amidst their own crisis that I don’t know where they get their strength from. Two of the strongest women I know that continue to step up on every occasion. Leslie is always available to listen, go out on the town, and lend a hand whenever I have needed her. Her ability to clearly get from steps A to Z throughout a shit storm are priceless. Patience is a virtue that Leslie embodies to her core. I am forever grateful for her love and hope she knows she is loved back. (17 year friendship)

Thankfully Kellie has an open-door policy at her house. I have on many occasions had to do a drop in to clear my head. (and perhaps indulge in a glass of wine,,,ok maybe 2 or 3!) Kellie’s listening skills are impeccable. She is known for her southern hospitality and always offers to help no matter what time of day or night. I called her on moving night because I had an issue with the house cleaners, and she was there within 5 minutes handling the mess. Her organizational skills are stellar, proven throughout the move while unpacking or ordering supplies on Amazon. Kellie has your back, will stand up for you, and do the right thing. Kellie wears her heart on her sleeve. I want her to know how much I appreciate and love her. Kellie is a true giver of her heart. (16 year friendship)

I have been friends with my dear friend, Jill, since we lived in Utah. Our first experience together was in the south of France! You can’t go wrong starting off a relationship in a beautiful country surrounded by beautiful scenery, beautiful people, exquisite food, and a colicky baby! That’s right, Jill has been helping me out since Devyn was 3 months old. She has been there for me throughout the birth of our kids through their adulthood. We have shared many vacations, getaways, outings, traumas and dramas. Jill has been a constant source of inspiration. The enthusiasm she brings to any conversation/social is contagious. Not only does she share her zest for life but she also shares her best advice. Our friendship has continued to blossom over the years with respect, creativity, and love. Jill continues to bring out the best me which shows just how important she is to me. (20 year friendship)

I have decided that I need to break this post up into 2 days. There is so much joy in my heart for all of those that I need to thank it is too much for one post. As I was writing it just got too long to take in at one quick blog read! I adore my friends and want them all to know how important they are to me. Please stay tuned for part two of the real best friends a girl could have!