To All the Girls I've Loved Before

I dedicate this post to the women in my life both past and present
who have shaped, influenced, taught and loved me. 

As March draws herself to a close and Michigan slowly ushers in her spring season, an old friend reminded me that it is Women's month. 
Normally I don't get in for "themed" months, rather finding them silly or distasteful, but I'll spare the opposition here in favor of the great ladies in my life. It's a glimpse into what I see as special and hope you find it special too.

Mom, there isn't a day that goes by that I don't look back and thank God for you.
I remember breaking my thumb in grade school and you found a way for me to do up my pants despite my cast. When we discussed Stranger-Danger during one of the many summer trips to Sugarloaf, you gave us the safe word "Terrifying Duck."  You made sure we knew what family was and the importance of sticking together as one. There were family vacations, trips to the lake and water fights that weren't limited to the outdoors. You were my biggest supporter when it must have been hardest to love me. You put yourself through school so you could teach others and you refused the notion that your body would dictate your limitations. I see you with your grandchildren and hope one day they will know what an amazing person you are. I love you.

Margaret Elizabeth, the going hasn't always been easy for you and me. I'm grateful that we grew into adulthood and through making our peace became close. You're an amazing mother and I hope you remember to live a life that is anything but beige. I admire your strength and your discipline. I love you.

Ma'am, thank you. You are every bit the grandmother I need and love.

Grandmother Harrison, you've inspired me in ways you never could have known. I wish you could have seen how it all turned out.

A- sup hoe? you're 30 years deep with this and we can't seem to shake it. You've saved my bacon more than once and gave me my life back. My confidant, my friend, my most lovely and inappropriate friend. Words aren't there for the shenanigans we continue to pull. I'd say crazy, but we know that's not true.
You're strength is inspiring and your insight is remarkable. Morning coffee never tasted so good.

Kathy G., you were the friend I needed when I needed one the most. You taught me it was not only ok to march to my own drummer but expected I should have my own marching band. You taught me much about being my own person and you shaped me in ways only a big sister could.

Cat, you were my first girlfriend and we see how that turned out. You're my friend and sister. Your family is my family.
You and I never have enough time. I love you and I miss you terribly. You and that brother of yours, you gave me hope.

Chrissy- not many people can say they have a friendship that falls generations deep. In fact, when we were little, I thought we WERE cousins.  I am truly glad to have grown up with you and honored that I still call you friend. I love you and hope
that in this life and next, friends we will remain. Oh, and sorry about the white kitten on your birthday that one year.

All of these women have faced obstacles of great difficulty and not only survived, but thrived. They serve as inspiration and influence and the world is a better place with them in it.