I have many Treasures!!!

These past couple of days I've been surrounded by the most amazing women. I am so blessed that over the past two years I have found such beautiful friends who are so supportive and loving. Sometimes, when I look at their faces, listen to their voices or look at their art I am left breathless by the miracle that has happened.

As I have grown more stable and situated in my private life (marrying Richard, buying our new home, settling into a life-rythym) I have felt my heart opening to the possibility of new relationships and friendships. Without going into detail....I literally had to let go of many people who I learned were simply not my friends, who did not have my best interest in their actions or their hearts. I have had to, in many ways, totally start over (moving, changing my phone number & not being listed in the phone book, changing my name). I felt this all was a step in recovery from my previous six years of turmoil, struggle and sadness.

Through alot of work, I finally felt like I could trust myself in choosing appropriate friends who would be true to me, who would love me and who I could love back. I also felt strong enough to follow my dream of teaching visual journaling and working more on the artistic side at the Doodle. It seemed to all happen at once. What has happened since my trust, willingness and openess increased has been the unfolding of a true miracle. I have brought people into my life who I treasure with such passion that I am often brought to tears when I look at their faces and take part in their own journeys. I am learning how to be a good friend and I am giving myself permission to receive the gifts that come from friendship.

I still have a few friends from what I call my "before life". They will be with me forever. Our bond is firm and cemented. They are the kind of friends that I always feel comfortable with no matter how long its been since we've seen one another. These are the friends whose adult children have been in my life since they were babies. These are the friends who I have time with, who have watched me go through the ups and downs of my before life. Our relationships are true and sure. I will always have room for them in my life.

The friends that I have acquired recently are part of the true awe in my life. I have gathered around me a core of women who are so strong and beautiful it is amazing. They are all capable, devoted to their families, committed to their priorities in life and who work very hard at being the people that they want to be. They are good to the core. They carry a light with them that I bask in. When I enter the circle I become part of that wondrous light and I experience another form of total love that is amazing.

My life is very full. I have so many blessings. Believe me....not a day goes by that I don't spend time being grateful for all the many gifts that have been brought to me. I am honored by the wealth and support of friends. For them I am so grateful.