friendship...

Once in our life we come across a friendship or two that last a lifetime. Her name is Althea Honey. One of my heroes. A charming woman with honest demeanor. Distance between us is not a problem as far as constant and regular communication is concerned. She does not own a computer but she  hand writes and sometimes types all her lovely letters and notes.What a lovely penmanship.  Selfishly, I don't want her to own a computer for I treasure all her personalized correspondence. She lives by herself in Northern California with her adorable dog Mitzie. We met at the oddest time. When our "inside passage" trip took a stop at Juneau Alaska, she boarded. We made instant friends. We would visit the dining hall and other areas together and would always strike a great exchange of ideas. She was amazed at how the kitchen crew managed to cook some of the Asian dishes just for me. Sometimes she would come with me to visit the crew room and chat with these  hospitable and charming people. The loveliest  and certainly unforgettable  thing she ever did for me was when she changed her plans just so she can celebrate  with me on my birthday aboard the ship. Friendship that lasts a lifetime is certainly nurtured. Both parties have to make an effort to make sure the friendship blooms into a full-grown sweet, caring, accepting, loving, growing and connected relationship. Hers was the first Christmas card I received three days ago...with a hint of disappointment as to why she hasn't heard from me lately. Well, Althea, here's to you. You are the loved. You are treasured.  You are appreciated. What a lovely name, what a lovely person!!!