November 7th is one of those days that has been imprinted on my memory since 1989. It is the birthday of one of my oldest and dearest friends. I'd say she's my best friend, but really that term is loaded and imprecise. She's not my oldest friend either, because we met when she was almost 12 and I was newly 13, and we both have friends we've known far longer.
She's the friend who held me as I sobbed at age 16 when I had my heart broken.
She's the friend who, weeks later, held my hand as my mother left the house in a hurry -- breakfast half-made on the stove -- for the emergency room, where we later learned, my beloved aunt had just died.
She's the friend I called first when I received my college acceptance letters, started dating my future husband, was proposed to, and found out I was pregnant five weeks after returning from my honeymoon.
She's the only person who could lure me to visit Alabama, because I'd never had a desire to visit the state before she lived there.
She's the friend who nearly always votes a different way, but it never comes between us.
She's the friend -- the only friend -- who never, ever forgets my birthday.
So, Ruth Ann, on your 32nd birthday, I thank you for being that kind of friend. -- the kind of friend a dozen women would ask to stand up for them at their wedding. You're an amazing woman, wife, mother, sister and friend.
Well, forgive me if I misspell a few things since my eyes are still teary from that touching tribute! Thank you so much for dedicating a post to my birthday and our friendship. That was very special. It's hard to believe that we've been friends for TWENTY YEARS now! I hold you so dear to my heart, and thank God for blessing me with the gift of you! Love you sweet Sandie!
Posted by: Ruthie | November 08, 2009 at 10:24 PM
I know I'm a little late to this party, but I had to comment that Ruth Ann is one of the most wonderful people I've had the pleasure to meet. Happy very belated birthday Ruthie!
Posted by: Zuania | August 02, 2010 at 01:22 AM