Dear Stephanie,

I can't believe it's been over a decade, 11 years to be exact, since you left this world and forever changed my world. In one way it seems like so long ago, yet in other ways I remember that day and you so well that it seems like just yesterday. It was a Sunday, like today.

I'm sure you know this already, but I have to tell you how happy I am to have reconnected with some of our childhood friends. I've talked about you with some of them and I showed them your picture during one of our virtual meetups. They remember you and I'm sure you'd remember them, too.

I'm going out to dinner tonight for the first time since the pandemic began. I've ordered carry out a few times, but tonight will be the first time in over a year that I'll be eating inside a restaurant. I've chosen the restaurant where we used to eat after the Bead Expo each time. It was under different management at that time, but it's still the same great food. I can't think of a better way to reintroduce myself to eating out again (not that I do it that much, but you know, once in a while it's nice). I'm looking forward to it and I'm so glad you will be a part of it as well.

I took a walk this morning. I usually only walk Monday-Friday, but how could I not today? It's a little hot and humid, but mostly cloudy with a slight breeze, so it felt good. I walked from 7:30 this morning through about 9:30. Time flies when we're having fun! It's definitely bunny season around here. I named them Cocoa Puff, after your bunny who was named Cream Puff. They are brown and they are all variants of the same Cocoa Puff. (I may be watching too much Loki...)

I have to admit, I did cry a little this morning, but I'm okay with that. I feel sad because you're not physically here, but I know you're with me in so many other ways. I am grateful for that. The sadness I feel is only because of the once in a lifetime friendship we built. I wouldn't trade that for anything.

Anyway, I took lots of pictures this morning. I hope you enjoy looking at them as much as I enjoyed taking them.

Luv ya lots.

Your best friend forever,

Meezan