Today is such a beautiful fall day. For me the perfect temperature and a nice mix of sun and clouds that give the sky character and makes me yearn to be outdoors; a painter’s (or photographer’s, or poet’s) dream.  I’m glad I got a chance to enjoy it before it turns into yesterday – and before I know it another year gone. How time flies.

A year ago yesterday my very best friend died. Normally, I would have said that I lost my best friend, but that’s not true. She’s not lost at all. I carry her in my heart and I know she watches over me as she did for more than 40 years.

It’s funny how yesterday came and went and I didn’t give it a second thought. I knew last week that the day was coming. I reminded myself of it again two days ago, and yet this first anniversary came and left and I didn’t think about it anymore until today.   And today I’m not so sad.

I wonder if Joni had anything to do with that clearing of my head?  It is just like something she would do in life. She knew me for 46 years, shared my every wish and hope and dream. If anyone knew how to cheer me up it would be her. Or in this case not allow me to be sad.

I miss her terribly. How can I not?  She is woven into the very fabric of my being and there is not much that I do or experience that I don’t share with her. Only now I do so silently, having cognitive conversations and knowing intuitively her responses.  

I am so grateful for my big “sister” Joni (Joan Elizabeth Smith). My mother’s other daughter, grade school friend, my high school cohort, my children’s Auntie, my confidant, my partner in crime, my BFF, my bud, the peanut butter to my jelly. I could go on, but….

I thought this posting would be longer, filled with remembrances and stories but she’s tugging at me, telling me to get up, get out and enjoy the rest of the day as night falls early now.  I have literally a lifetime of memories and I can tell you stories for the next 40+ years, but right now, the cool crisp air, the crunch of fallen leaves underfoot, and the enchanting colors of autumn are beckoning me and Joni has given me the OK to go out and play.  

PS: Tell someone you love them today.