portland 2007

I’ve grown close to many of you, primarily through our online conversations. But after reading her latest entry, I’m especially grateful for the lunch lkmadigan and I shared a few years back. Lucky for me, my dear friends Lorraine and Lisa were able to join our afternoon playdate.     

So much of a person’s essence is revealed through a face-to-face encounter, don’t you think? The lilt in their voice…the way their eyes crinkle when they smile…the way they lean into your conversation, as if nothing else matters more than the here-and-now. And there’s perhaps nothing as soul-satisfying as shared laughter (and/or tears), tight hugs, and sincere promises to stay in touch. And so it is that I’m remembering a special afternoon among treasured friends, and wishing for another. 

Lisa’s news came as quite a shock to me. But in its rawness, I’m remembering to savor each moment, to cherish life’s simple joys, and to hold dear each of my relationships. So I’m dedicating this entry to Lisa, the heartbeat behind Thankful Thursday. For the many ways we’ve expressed our friendship over time, I’ll be forever grateful.

Top Photo:  LK Madigan and Lorraine T. Bottom Photo: Lisa Shroeder and me (Portland, 2007)