This week I had to say goodby to a very special friend. Joanne and I met through stamping about 15 years ago. We would meet in Carroll IA and spend a couple of nights and days stamping and laughing. Later, Joanne formed a small close knit Yahoo Group and we continued to meet every summer and stamp and laugh and eat and laugh and share stories, laugh, learn from each other, and share our toys. Oh and did I mention laugh? Oh I could tell you so many stories! Joanne was usually the ringleader in a lot of our escapades! She was always up for a good time and had such a kind heart. Joanne was diagnosed with cancer last year and had surgery. We all (and she) thought that was the end of it. We found out different in December when it returned. We met in January and had a wonderful visit. Our husbands had become friends years ago so we left them and did some stamping and talking and yes, there were a few tears as well. Two weeks after that several of us went to her house for a visit and had a great time of laughs, and of course eating. hey, it is what we did best! I never saw her again but she texted me daily until almost the end. Joanne you will always be with me as I go about my daily life. I hope I can be half the person you were. A very special lady indeed. God Speed my dear friend. Love you lots!
I am really sorry to hear of the loss of your friend. It sounds like you had some wonderful times together. Wouldn't it be so nice if they could find a cure for this nasty disease. Bless you for being a good friend to her. You were no doubt a real treasure for Joanne.
ReplyDeleteI'm so sorry to hear about your friend. I'm sure she felt richly blessed, having such a great support group of true friends. You will be in my thoughts and prayers. Hugs...
ReplyDeleteI didn't get the gift of her friendship as long as you did, but I treasure the time that we did know each other. She truly was a fun person and you're right, she was usually right in the middle of the silly times. She was/is so loved by all of us. The time we met in January with her really was so special! Your tribute to her is beautiful!
ReplyDeleteWhat a wonderful tribute to Joanne. We will miss her terribly! Thanks for sharing, Sheri.
ReplyDeleteI am sorry she had to go so young, Sheri. A 15-year friendship is a treasure, full of oodles of memories that, as you said so well, will be with you throughout your daily life. Thank you for sharing and God bless. Hugs, Darnell
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