Well today is the 11th anniversary of my Dad's passing. It always gets me,it was a sudden thing and hard to believe, today is a similar day, the last of summer with a taste of fall in the air. Dad taught me to be a strong woman, in his way - even though men of that era reigned back their affection somewhat when a daughter became a "young lady",but he was always there in love and support, just showed it in a different way. You know how little girls just put their daddies on a white horse and armor - they are our first loves, the be all and end all!. My sibs and I have our own ways to cope with Dad and Mom's anniversaries of their passing: , I always lay out flowers at the cemetary, since he and Mom are there now, when I get the rare occurance to come home.When I have a problem, I always "ask" them to help, and they give me the strength to go on. I truly believe they never leave us, they are always there in spirit.

Today, got the news that my Mom's best girlfriend has passed away. Louise was always there to keep Mom lively after Dad passed and Mom moved to a small apartment. Mom was widowed for 6 yrs. and Louise was a good help to her in that time. Not that Mom ever complained but I know it was lonesome for her. with she and Louise, Such a bond there, and reflecting on the power of Girlfriends and what they mean to your life. Louise was full of pep and didn't let her widowhood get in the way of her life. She and Mom were buds of the best caliber. Louise always called Mom "Ladybug" and after Mom passed had a small tattoo of a ladybug done. Don't even want to know where it was!! LOL there! She told us when we chance met about a yr. after Mom passed. My great comfort in this is knowing she and Mom are having a fine time in Heaven, catching up and laughing. Louise and her husband were good friends of Mom and Dad, from pregnancies to little league, graduations and kids growing up. Her husband preceded Dad in passing by a few years. Louise was integral in keeping Mom from being depressed. I bless her heart for that. The power of girlfriends, ladies - need I say more. Blessings to you all.