by Janeal Mulaney

Created on: August 02, 2010

Fonda

 As I reflect on my life, this morning I have come to realize one thing. You have always been there, since our tenth grade year you have shared, every minute with me. Even when you were far away, all I had to do was call. From my hardest to brightest moments you shared them with me. Although we had gone through middle school together, we did not become friends until our tenth grade year, we were destine to both be in Driver’s Ed together, for this class was not only when we became acquainted but we would become the closest of friends. In that class we drove our teacher nuts, made the librarian so mad she broke out in hives, (I still say she looked better with them then without). We also became on first name basis with our vice-principle, for he was the man we had to persuade to let us back into the library after we were kicked out.  

From that day on we were joined at the hip. The next three years flew by, but you were always at my side, with very few spats where one or the other would have to say sorry. After graduation you married the man of your dreams, and I thought I had lost my best friend, I wasn’t ready for you to go, for someone else to be more important to you then me. Yes, things changed but then life never stays the same, but our friendship did not end, as I was afraid it would, it just changed and I added Ray as a friend. You both moved away and I was alone, once again I thought it would be the end, with you and Ray so far away how in the world our friendship hold. Through calls, and letters we stayed in touch and often there were periods over the years where we didn’t see each other at all. I got married and pregnant I took my new husband and fat belly to see my best friend, only to find out you had a bun in the oven too. Our girls are close only sick months apart, then boys after that. Each one of us had a toddler on our hip and one on the way. We shared our experiences through all those years, then came my separation and where did I run, my tears fell like rain on your shoulders, not once did you turn me away, for with you I’d always have a place to stay.

My divorce was over and money was tight, at times I needed to borrow money, until I could pay it back, not once did you gripe or have a fit you helped me out and was there for me instead. I’ve stayed at your home throughout the years whenever my children and I were able to come for a visit you always made me feel welcome and at home. Now our children are raised with lives of their own, we are still close and you’re still my best friend. I’ve been there for you through thick and thin, you’ve been there for me your understanding had no end. More then thirty years of smiles, and tears and our friendship is as strong as it has ever been.

We’ve both had other friendships good and bad some have lasted through the years, but none have been as close as you. So this is for you my friend, both far and near you are my best friend, my sister, and my mentor. Thank you for always being there, even when you didn’t agree with the paths I choose, thank you for you kindness and understanding, but most of all thank you for being my friend and never judging me. I will always love you.

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