Friendship

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Living in a community with so many people provides a fresh look at life. Many of my neighbors have friends they see regularly, having grown up together. I suppose living in Milwaukee their entire lives helps to keep those connections strong. Even though I spent much of my life in Chicago, the names and faces of childhood friendships have become blurred, connections mostly lost. It takes commitment and intention to remain in each other's lives for the whole journey.  

You never know who you will meet along the way, who will come into your life and provide the safety net you need to survive and thrive. My good fortune came into my life when I met Jeanie in 1975. We  both had moved to Evanston, into houses a block away from each other. I thought, here is someone with young children, similar ages to my own. We have a lot in common. I like her smile. She has long hair like mine. Likes French jeans. Toddlers the same age. Boys going to the same school. Advice and care was there in abundance, in both directions.

I had no idea at the time how much I would come to depend upon her for support, care, and love. Every time life threw me a curve ball, Jeanie was there to soothe my heartache. We grew up together really, as only two twenty somethings can in the midst of the challenges marriage and child rearing bring. She hasn't needed me as much, but she knows I'm always there for her. 

We spent last weekend together with our daughters Sarah and Ketia. Our girls played together as children, drifted apart for a while, and reconnected many years ago. They have a strong bond that mirrors Jeanie's and mine. I wonder, how often does that happen? Such a lovely gift for four women to cherish.

Barb and Jeanie, Charlevoix, 2008

Comments

  1. jeanieMarch 14, 2026 at 10:24:00 AM CST

    Oh, Barbara. You have really touched my heart....again! Our friendship (sisterhood) has been so important to me, also. I couldn't believe you when you told me you were leaving Evanston. I selfishly cautioned you about moving too far away and losing all of the connections you had made. You didn't go too, too far and we have managed to keep "our love" alive! We always pick up right where we left off and I always know you are there for me as I am for you. It is a special blessing for you and I and for our daughters to have each other. We are quite the foursome! Always fun, supportive and reassuring. Love you, dear friend!

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