No? Well, let me tell you about her.
Once my husband said, "Wouldn't it be wonderful if you could see people's souls when you looked at them, instead of seeing how they look on the outside?"
That is exactly what happens when you look at Maria. You see her beautiful outsides -- but what shines through even more is her soul. And it is an incredible one, warm, yellow-red-orangey, with little gold sparkles.
Maria is like a big hug when you need it most.
Maria is like sitting by the fireside, eating buttery popcorn and drinking cocoa, warming your toes and reminiscing about the best times in your life as you watch the rain beat against the windows.
Maria is like a bouquet of flowers, freshly picked from the garden with the dew still on them.
Maria is my friend.
I am so lucky.
Today is her birthday... so go here and tell her to have a great day!
She is loved.
What a beautiful thing to do for your friend! She's lucky to have you!
Posted by: ~Kristie | December 05, 2006 at 02:12 AM
OMG! Lainie! What an amazing thing of you to do....I wish you could see me right now....the tear drops can't hide the blushing from my face! Thank you! And yes, I am lucky beyond belief to have met you and to be able to call you my dear friend. Thank you! It was so very wonderful to see you yesterday...thanks SOOOOO MUCH!!! I love ya!
Posted by: maria | December 05, 2006 at 09:22 AM
Did I mention I'm humbled and touched beyond what words can say???? Thank you, thank you, thank you!
Posted by: maria | December 05, 2006 at 09:24 AM
Such a sweet, sweet tribute to Maria! I only know her through blogging, but I really do consider her a friend now! Happy Birthday to sweet Maria!!!
Posted by: cherylwray | December 05, 2006 at 09:30 AM
Lainie, I just had to come back in to say thank you one more time!!! Lainie, this was such an amazing surprise my friend. Thank you! :)
Posted by: Maria | December 05, 2006 at 01:35 PM