Welcome to my joyful exploration of life’s most precious treasures – time and friendship. As we navigate the chapters of our lives, these two elements weave a tapestry of memories and companionship. Thus, growing more valuable with each passing moment. On this blog page, I share some of my most precious moments with friends throughout the years. As of this writing, I am covering 7 and 1/2 decades!!
Yes, you read that right! This blog is a testament to a life richly adorned with the company of friends, both old and new. Each friend is a chapter in the narrative of my life. Each has offered unwavering companionship, the solace of confidants, and a treasure trove of enduring memories.
My Dearest Friends, a Testament to Time and Friendship
In this snapshot, meet the dynamic quartet—Joey Murphy, Barbara Bateman, Carole Metcalf, and yours truly. We share more than just smiles; our bond traces back to the trenches of our nursing careers. Together, we navigated the highs and lows, not just in the operating rooms but in the beautiful tapestry of life.
Our professional journey took us to numerous conferences where shared hotel rooms became the backdrop for laughter, camaraderie, and the exchange of experiences. It’s fascinating how, over the years, each of us evolved into the role of Director of Operating Rooms (or as we professionally term it, Perioperative Services) at different hospitals. It’s not just a coincidence; it’s a testament to our collective dedication, growth, and friendship.
Beyond the surgical suites, our connection transcended into personal lives. We stood as pillars of support, celebrating victories and offering comfort during challenges. The camaraderie we built isn’t confined to the workplace; it’s a lifelong alliance that goes beyond professional titles. Here’s to the enduring friendship that witnessed our careers flourish and our lives intertwine in the most beautiful ways. Cheers to Joey, Barbara, Carole, and the countless shared moments that define true friendship!
The Timeless Dance of Life
In the hustle and bustle of our modern lives, time often seems elusive. However, let’s embrace the beauty of its passage. As the hands of the clock dance forward, so do the opportunities for joy, growth, and connection. Time is not our adversary; it’s a benevolent guide, leading us through a mosaic of experiences.
Transporting back to the vibrant city of Houston in 2001, this snapshot captures a remarkable moment with my friends and colleagues from St. Luke’s Episcopal Hospital. Together, we shared not just the triumphs but weathered a major storm, both metaphorically and literally.
This picture holds a special place in my heart. These incredible individuals stood by my side when I was honored with the Federation of Houston Professional Woman of Excellence award. Little did we know that the same year would test our mettle in the face of nature’s fury.
In this particular year, Houston faced the relentless fury of Tropical Storm Allison. The storm left our hospital, a major healthcare institution in the city, grappling with the aftermath. Despite the challenges, our dedicated team, including the faces you see in this photo, emerged as unsung heroes. St. Luke’s Episcopal Hospital was flooded and plunged into darkness for over a week, yet this resilient group played a pivotal role in saving lives and providing critical surgical care under the most adverse conditions.
The bond forged during those challenging times goes beyond the professional realm. Many of these teammates have remained close friends over the years, a testament to the enduring camaraderie that adversity often forges. Their unwavering dedication and support are etched in my gratitude, and I am forever thankful for the privilege of working alongside such an exceptional team. In the face of adversity, we found strength, unity, and friendship that stood the test of time.
Cherishing Deep and Meaningful Friendships
Navigating the Seasons Together: As seasons change, so do the landscapes of our lives. From the exuberance of youth to the wisdom of age, friends provide a constant anchor. Together, we weather the storms and bask in the sunshine, creating memories that defy the limitations of time. While we navigate life’s seasons with friends, we remember the good times and the not-so-good times. The events in our lives, we share and strengthen our bonds.
Just like a fine wine, friendships mature with time, gaining richness and depth. In the tapestry of our existence, friends are the vibrant threads that add color and warmth. Whether sharing laughter or offering a comforting presence during challenging times, true friends are the jewels in the necklace of life.
A Cherished Moment in Time: Grandchildren, Friendship, and Martha Link
In this poignant snapshot, I reminisce about a beautiful moment shared with my dear friend, Martha Link, as we basked in the joy of our grandchildren’s company. Martha, not just the mother-in-law to my son Lee but a cherished friend, holds a special place in the tapestry of my heart.
Beyond the familial ties, Martha and I connected on a profound level, bound by a shared love for our extended families. Her presence brought not only warmth but a reservoir of wisdom and life experiences that enriched our friendship. Many days were spent in her company, and each one was an honor.
Martha was truly a grand lady of her time, a gem in the truest sense. In my personal catalog of exceptional women, I affectionately designate her as one of my “Diamond Divas.” Her passing, several years ago, marked a poignant chapter as Alzheimer’s took its toll. I miss her dearly, as do her children and grandchildren, feeling the void left by the absence of this remarkable soul.
The Tapestry of Seven and One-Half Decades of Life
Seize the moment; it’s a mantra often repeated but seldom fully embraced. Whether sipping coffee on a lazy Sunday morning or embarking on spontaneous adventures, every moment has the potential to become a cherished memory. Time is not a constraint; it’s the canvas on which we paint our most beautiful recollections.
As I weave through the tapestry of my life, I find myself marveling at the threads of connection that stretch across the vast canvas of time. Friends, like radiant stars, have illuminated the darkest nights and added sparkle to the sunniest days. This blog is a reflection of the diverse and beautiful patterns that form when friendship becomes an integral part of the passage of time.
Capturing Laughter and Friendship in the Mediterranean: A Once-in-a-Lifetime Journey with Barbara and Carole
This final picture encapsulates the sheer joy of a once-in-a-lifetime adventure with my dearest friends, Barbara Bateman and Carole Metcalf. Taken in the enchanting city of Barcelona, it’s a visual testament to the laughter, camaraderie, and unforgettable moments we shared during our extraordinary three-week journey. We took this trip together just before the COVID-19 pandemic hit.
Our whirlwind tour took us across the Mediterranean, exploring mesmerizing sites that left us in awe. From the vibrant streets of Barcelona to the picturesque landscapes of the Mediterranean, every step of the way was marked by shared laughter and the warmth of cherished friendship.
As I gaze at this photo, the memories of that incredible trip flood back. It’s more than a snapshot; it’s a treasure trove of experiences etched in my memory. The joy we experienced together during those weeks is a testament to the strength of our friendship. I am immensely grateful for the time we had to create these precious memories.
Time and Friendship Are Gifts from God.
In the grand symphony of existence, time and friendship emerge as divine gifts bestowed upon us by the hands of God. Let’s not be mere spectators to the ticking clock. Instead, let’s savor each fleeting second and revel in the profound camaraderie that graces our beautiful journey. As we wholeheartedly embrace the exquisite beauty of time’s passage and the unbridled joy found in authentic friendships, we unravel the sacred secret to a life rich in fulfillment and meaning. Here’s to toasting the boundless possibilities that unfold when we truly understand and cherish these two extraordinary gifts, graciously granted from above.