i heart you

Sending love and cyber hugs to you all today. I can't tell you how much I appreciate the friends (and Mom, who is also my friend) who come here to visit. Most of you are far away, and I want you to know that it matters that you stop by to check in and read what's going on in my life--what I share about my day or what I think about one thing or another. Many of you are friends I met through the internet, and except for Clare and Mama Jayne, I have had the good fortune to meet you in person (and Clare will visit from New Zealand this fall!).

How amazing is it that Jayne, who I met on beliefnet, introduced me to Ken! That Jules, Pam and Janet came to my wedding. That Jules, Kip, Janet and I have spent weekends together in all sorts of places (Cleveland, Florida, on a cruise!) and that the tonic of our love and laughter sustain me in times when I am feeling neither. That I think of Moni every morning when I pour my coffee because I remember that she likes her coffee hot (every morning!). And then there's Gail, Maria, Karen and Kellee, Early Birds whose faces I can picture laughing. What joy you all bring to my life, and love that warms my heart.

Barbara, you and Jimmy are family to me, and I treasure your friendship more than you know. And Mom, there's too much to say about you, but I love you with all of my heart.

To my near and increasingly dear friends Yolande and Shannon, I am so glad to know you and call you friends. And I will clean out cupboards and kitchens with you any day!

I know that there are a few others out there, and not being mentioned doesn't mean you don't matter, because you do. That you take the time to check in is evidence of relationship, and I value all those who are part of my life.

Happy Valentine's Day, one and all. I heart you!