Serena

My dad was assigned to Geilenkirchen NATO Air Base, Germany, when I was in tenth grade. The base had a school that only went up to 5th grade, so we were bused across the border to AFCENT International School in Brunssum, The Netherlands. I took International Modern History 1st period with Herr Wolff. It ran on the German schedule which meant we got out of class about 10 minutes before the English section classes. So after class was over, I had 10 extra minutes to chit-chat with friends, take a bathroom break, or whatever before having to get to my next class. About a month or so into school, we were told we weren't allowed to be in the halls during that time and had to report to Mrs. Elder's class for that extra 10 minutes. So when my class came in, it was a free for all, and both classes would stand around talking. And that is where I met Serena. 

I had just signed up for Model International Parliament, and she approached me and said she heard I was going. I told her there was a lot to do to get ready, and she offered to help in any way possible. We spent the rest of high school as friends. We were on Student Council together and organized the Mr. AFCENT beauty pageant and brought back the bonfire at Homecoming. We were in the student exchange program and traveled to Praque via train together. I always have a good time when I am with Serena. She is smart, honest, funny, helpful, and direct. I never have to guess how she is feeling. She listens when I talk to her and is good about follow up questions. She is fiercely protective of those she loves, and she pushes me in the areas needed to be my best. We text multiple times daily, and her texts brighten my mood. She leaves in-depth voice mails that make me laugh. She is a hard worker...probably one of the hardest working people I know. She gets more done before 8 a.m. than most people do in a day.  One time she told me I was the "Mr. Gage" of my school.  That is the Mt. Everest of compliments, and if you know Mr. Gage, you'll understand why! 

I just returned from her beautiful destination wedding in Casa Ybel on Sanibel Island in Florida. It was a beautiful wedding on the beach. The waves provided a gorgeous backdrop, and there was a gusty breeze to cool us off. Her son, who just turned five, walked her down the aisle. The bride and groom were surrounded by two dozen of their closest friends and family making for an intimate ceremony. It was perfect. After the ceremony, Serena hugged me tightly and said, "I am so glad you were here. I love that you are my friend." How sweet is that? Made me teary. I am so glad SHE is my friend. She has taught me the beauty of strength through life's hardships, no distance can ever separate true friends, and that retail therapy CAN make you feel better (especially at a Coach outlet with 50% off and a coupon with an additional 20% off!).

Actual text messages sent the day after I started the blog: 

Suzanne:  Guess what???  I started a blog!  I never in a million years thought I would, but I did on Saturday after returning from your wedding.

Serena:  Cool!  Send me the link!

Suzanne:  Okay, but I have to warn you about something first...

Serena: Oh no...what?

Suzanne:  I know you are super private, but the first official post is about you.

Serena:  ?!?

Suzanne:  The blog is kindred-spirits-near-and-far@blogspot.com

Don't hate me.  I hope you like it.  :)

Serena:  (31 {nervous} minutes later)  Never! Love it! Very kind of you!