One of my closest friends is my comadre Marissa (comadre/compadre is what parents call their children’s godparents in Spanish). We went to college together, were roommates one summer, have traveled together, we know each other’s families, and have remained friend’s for about 20 years. She is family to me. We have been through many stages of our lives together, we were in each other’s weddings, and I was honored when she asked me to be the baptismal godmother to her beautiful daughter. My goddaughter has become a niece to me. I will never forget the words Marissa used when she asked me to be the godmother, she said “I selected you because you are one of my oldest and closest friends, and I value your friendship. I want us to remain friends and involved in each other’s lives, for the rest of our lives.”  She may not recall those words, but I do. They warmed my heart and have stayed with me since then. It was a special honor because in our culture and religious beliefs baptismal godparents are an important decision.

With our family commitments, careers, and busy schedules, we aren’t always able to see each other as often as we would like. Unlike with my other friends, Marissa and I don’t speak on the phone very often. We catch up on the phone a few times per year and those end up being about one hour conversations. We get together a few times per year, usually for our family birthday parties, holidays, and we schedule gatherings with our two families, to visit and catch up.

We are each individual and different types of people. Every friendship is different and how we nurture and maintain that relationship is different as well. I have learned over the years, that true friendships will be with you for a long time and to nurture each friendship differently. Not all my friends like to speak on the phone, not all my friends can change plans spontaneously, not all my friends are able to get together often, and that is ok. I have a handful of close friends and accept them as they are, just as they accept me as I am. I value the love, happiness, and sense of belonging they bring to my life and I value that. They have been there for me in good times and bad, and I for them. It is nice to know these women will be a part of my life, for the rest of my life….I hope they will! These friends are the family I choose.

Yesterday, we attended the Bastille Day Celebration (charity event) in Rancho Santa Fe. We had a wonderful time, so much fun! I also saw my friend Lucy at the event and we got to catch up! Here are a few pics of our outing. It was nice to spend time with my hubby, my compadres, and to see my goddaughter…and the memories of the laughs and good time we had will stay with me forever!

Who is your closest friend? Have you had a friendship that has lasted more than 5, 10, or 20 years? Tell me about it…stories about good friends are always fun!

Now, go call your close friends and wish them a happy Sunday!

Hugs,

Paola

PS – Creating Memorable Experiences with Friends.

This is the basket my hubby won in the Silent Auction bid, a package for a round of golf at La Costa Resort and Spa. All to support a good cause!

PS – Fun getaway with another Silent Auction Prize we purchased: Weekend in Las Vegas!