Thinking of you on your birthday and I wanted be sure to post this for your page:
I don’t quite know how to say goodbye to one of my oldest and absolute closest friends. She was like a sister, my wild red headed sister, my person, even in those rare times when we weren’t always in close touch…since kindergarten. We were nothing but ourselves together…always.
It seems like all my memories as a child have you in them Josie. Probably in part because you were always so good at helping me remember them. From the longest straw in Tulsa, candy party shenanigans, our summer-long sleepovers, our constant singing and acting, the wilards, rooftop hangs, $1 movie nights, our band and made up songs, nicknames, inside jokes, handshakes…i couldn’t possibly recall all the moments we shared growing up.
I’m also grateful for our closeness as adults. We were there for one another thru all the things.
I’m gonna miss your laugh, your zest and your brilliant light. You never met a stranger and were sincerely kind and interested in everyone. You were always there to offer up thoughtful words, your huge heart, and a smile or a song.
Just last month when I lost a friend to ALS you reached out to comfort me and you text me…you profoundly wrote “they say dying is like taking off a tight shoe…it’s not the end but a beginning and we are ones that suffer the loss. But instead celebrate the life”
I know you know how much I loved you and I certainly know how much you loved me…and thats the only thing getting me thru this immense loss and sadness. I know you will watch over me and all who love you.
I’ll do my best to celebrate your life friend and hold you and our many many memories close. May you Rest In Peace barefoot and free…