"I long to accomplish a great and noble task, but it is my chief duty to accomplish small tasks as if they were great and noble." -Helen Keller

Friday, July 23, 2010

Metamorphosis

1. (noun) friend 




a person you know well
 and regard with affection and trust 



When 
you've known
someone
almost half
of your
life....

Three Muskateers, 1998

{from newlywed
working girl ~
to hoping 
to be a mama ~
to mama!
to mama
of older kids}

Always
there for you

2008

beautiful

kind

loving

compassionate

kindred spirit

When does
that person
change from
friend
to
family?


2006

Isn't it
strange
how
non-relations
can become
closer
to your
 heart
than some
of your own
family members
with whom
you share
the same
blood,
the same
ancestors

but who
don't really
know you
as well....

2009

Know that
you cry
easily
from emotion.

Can become
so animated
that you
finish her
sentences.

That you
have
an old soul
and love
the same
pretty things
as she
does.

2007

That you
have untold
questions
about spirit
and faith.


All our
children,
now out
of
elementary school...

Giving us
freedom
to fly farther
from the
nests,
together.

Charleston
in January

Na-da Farm
sale in May

Savannah
in June!

2010

My dear
friend
Kathleen

sister of
my heart

About to
take a new
journey

Through 
surgery
and possibly
radiation
and chemo...

A different
trip than our
others....

But one I will
be with
her, on
every step
of the
way.

I love you,
Kath!



Dear blogging
friends, please
send your prayers
to my soul sister,
Kathleen
for her surgery
on July 27th
and for
the journey
that lies 
ahead.
We both
truly believe
in the 
power
of your
positive thoughts
and prayers.


[images: P&H archives!]
First pic is our
girls
Summer 2007

69 comments:

Debby said...

So sorry your bff is facing such a tough time. She is so lucky to have such a supportive friend in you. I will keep you both in my prayers. xo

Castles Crowns and Cottages said...

Dearest Suzanne,

I just come in from watering my garden and you were on my mind. Here I am, seeing your new post and I am moved with emotion and awe that God would put you on my heart. It would be an honor to lift up your beloved soul sister to our God, who has mercy and gives more than we dare to ask or imagine. A new journey indeed, for both of you, but what a wonderful friend she has to make the journey lighter. Remember what we talked about chez moi, about making memorable moments.....how will she "FEEL" during those precious moments that you spend with her.....make her laugh, do what you do best to make every step of the way a sweet scent of love and friendship....I know you will do that. Every night that I have my delicious cup of vanilla tea, I think of your kindnesses.

I know you will keep us posted.

Anita

Preppy Mama said...

My BF and I have been friends since 2nd grade. She is my "soul" sister and I can not imagine a day with out her. I know that special bond and I am praying for you and your "soul sister". xo

Acanthus and Acorn said...

Suzanne, I am so sorry to hear your dear friend is going through such a difficult time but, no doubt Kathleen feels comforted and blessed to have you in her life now more than ever.

Sending good thoughts and prayers to you both.
xo,
~Rebecca

paige said...

what a beautiful heartfelt tribute to your lifelong friend kathleen.
she will be in my prayers.
you are blessed to have each other suzanne.
much love sweet friend

Rene said...

This is such a sweet post Suzanne. Those photos of the two of you together are so adorable. Kathleen will be in my thoughts on the Komen walk this fall. It is nice to see here picture.

-Rene

Snappy Di said...

Girlfriends. There's simply nothing like the relationship, and old relationship, a friendship between two girlfriends. I've been down that radiation road with a girlfriend, in fact twice. I know what your heart is feeling, Suzanne and wishing only goodness for you as you BOTH go through this.

Sending the most positive of vibes today and always.

DI

K. RO said...

I know having had breast cancer myself(4 1/2 yrs. ago) that this is very scary. All of the what ifs and unknowns. BUT she will get thru this and be better for it. That's a promise. Her Prayers are already answered. This I know is true. If she want's to talk to me just let me know. Talking to other women that had been thru this help me a lot.
HUGS!!!!

Jo said...

I've just stumbled upon your blog ~ it's beautiful.

I'm so very sorry your sweet sister friend is going through this difficult and scary time.

Your photos and words are so heartfelt and loving.

Jo

Kim@Chattafabulous said...

Praying for everyone who loves her. She is blessed to have such a caring friend!

Ms. Bake-it said...

Hello Suzanne,

Today has been a very interesting day so far and it is only 8:30 a.m. The messages I am receiving are all about friends. First message was on my mind upon waking, then on the radio in the car on the way to work and now your post. Actually, I received the first message on my way home from work last night around 10:00 p.m.

I know the relationship you are describing; it is indeed a special relationship. I know because I have two such friends, one I have known for 25 years and the other 14 years. We have gone through many things in our years together and we are grateful to have been there for each other. This is a wonderful tribute to your friend and your love for her is very apparent. This is indeed a new journey for you both and although it may be rocky, you will find solace in one another and especially in your faith. Be strong my friend. My prayers will go out not only for Kathleen, but for you also.

Warmest regards,
Tracy

Olde Tyme Marketplace said...

With friends like you, her journey will be much softer. My prayers will be for both of you and your families.
Beth

Julie said...

Kathleen...on my list today. You will be the "kindred spirit" sister for her that women cherish in their lives, Suzanne. The one that we always know will be at the back door with food...with a little bouquet taped to the foil. and a little hand written note with little smiley faces punctuating it. The one we are not afraid to go ahead and allow to run for us and pick up stuff and take our kids under their wing...while we recuperate...That is sisterhood....truly...kin or not. Sisters out here in the bloggy world will be thinking of you and checking in to see how it's going because they will be praying and watching for updates.
Take care. Strong women...they are like teabags..Put them in hot water and their beauty and aroma and flavor only get stronger. Blessings and strength and Hope and Hugs...

Deborah said...

Thinking and praying for your sweet kindred Kathleen.
What a priviledge that you have been entrusted with... walking with her through this path of her life.
She will be given treasures in this time ..and one of them is "you".
Praying for wisdom from above for you as you allow your hands, heart, words to be an extension of Father Gods love,mercy and love for her...

In His love & friendship,
Deborah xo

cityfarmer said...

my dear new friend Suzanne

I've been being led to the post I wrote this morning since I read the sad, sad news at FifthandState ... I've known Debra for about 10 years ...

I am adding Kathleen to my daily prayers ... you can count on this ... my friend Annie was hit with this awful pest right DURING the farm sale and had to bow out ... she wanted so badly to be there.

may YOU find the strength YOU need for HER ...
it can be draining on everyone involved.

"Father God, we come to as your children ... children with real needs. With your power will wash over these families with peace and comfort as ONLY you can do.
Cover them with your grace and extend to Kathleen a life fully recovered and restored. May she sing while the dawn is still dark...
in Jesus' name, amen.

Violet said...

Suzanne,
After reading the previous posts and prayers, so beautifully written and heartfelt, all I can really say now is 'amen' to them all. A friendship like that is such a gift and blessing... and knowing you will be with her on that journey will indeed help her tremendously. Saying a prayer even now.

Please come over and enter my give-away when you have a moment.

~ Violet

Zuzu said...

A beautiful post, and please know that loving thoughts and prayers are being sent for Kathleen from my little cottage in the woods.
Zuzu

My Yellow House said...

Suzanne,
I truly believe that our closest friends are gifts from God and they are given to us for a special reason. Your lives were brought together so that you may be there with her for this time. The people who are in our lives because we choose them to be, are the most treasured people.
I know Kathleen will overcome this as you two have many more adventures to enjoy! I send you hugs and prayers and all the strength you need to be there for her. And to Kathleen ... I wish you peace and comfort for the road ahead and all my prayers.

pretty pink tulips said...

Dear Suzanne,
I am sending my healing and loving thoughts to you and Kathleen. I know her journey will not be an easy one, but with you by her side, she will have a smoother ride.

To the power of prayer and a full recovery!
xoxo Elizabeth

Farmgirl Paints said...

Oh girl so sorry hear about your precious friend's battle with cancer. I had a scare not that long ago with my best friend and I have to say it shook me from head to toe. I was so scared and had to just soak up the word to calm my fears. God will give you the grace to be there for her.

Morning T said...

I love seeing these photos of you together and am saying a big prayer for sweet Kathleen right now!
xoxo~
T

Debra@Common Ground said...

I know God joins people together in such special and enduring friendships. I will be praying for your dear friend, and for you also, that you can be someone to lean on and confide in while she's on this journey. The journey is always easier when we have a companion.
hugs and blessings,
Debra

Teresa said...

Oh Suzanne!
What a sweet and touching tribute to the steadfast FRIENDSHIP/Sisterhood between you and Kathleen!
How blessed you both are to have one another to JOURNEY through this life together.
I'm speechless when it comes to well wishing for your Kathleen.
What comes to mind at the moment is this:
Be STILL..for HE is GOD!
Wishing your sweet Kathleen the BEST results imaginable!
May the ANGELS surround Sweet Kathleen...bringing her comfort and peace during the scariest of moments.
ANd may the ALMIGHTY-ness of OUR GOD...
HEAL your Kathleen back!
HEAL her BACK and carry her forward STRONGER than BEFORE.
Life is fragile.
SO fragile.
xo

Blooming Rose Musings said...

Oh Suzanne, I am so sorry to hear this news. There is nothing in the world like best girlfriends! You will be given the strength to help her and she will be given the strength to heal. All of the comments above are beautiful and heartfelt. We will all include her and you in our prayers and thoughts. God bless you both. Please keep us posted. She is blessed to have you as her "sister" and I know you feel the same way about her. Let the healing begin. Please keep us posted.

Jeanie said...

Prayers are coming full force. Kathleen is lucky in having such a wonderful friend to share her journey -- it's a tough journey; but I have faith she'll prevail, especially with such support.

I know what you mean about friends sometimes being more than family. Some of my family -- the best ever. Others, I don't really know them. My friends are the family I choose for myself -- and I love them all. I can tell you do, too.

Completely Coastal + Daily Vitamin Sea said...

Such a beautiful tribute, and how wonderful to have a friend like that. I too believe in the power of positive thought and am sending thoughts of light and healing!!!

Susie @ Maddie's Nest said...

I'll keep Kathleen in my prayers....my mom has had breast cancer twice....hard times but she got through it...and I'll pray the same for Kathleen. How lucky she is to have such a good friend. I talked to my best friend this morning and was comforted how we can pick up and be there for each other desipte living on opposite ends of the US...and seeing each other only a couple of times a year. There is nothing like one's true girlfriends! Geeze, this is one of my first times visiting your blog and I am all teary!

Jemsmom said...

I totally understand your feelings about a sister of your heart. I just posted about my best friend who I miss terribly. I am praying for your friend and hoping that God heals her quickly. What a lucky woman she is to have you as a friend and to be there by her side. She will be stronger because she has you by her side.

Fearless Nester said...

Suzanne, You and your dear sister/BFF will be at the forethought of my hopes and prayers. YOU always know exactly the right words and I know you are the comfort Kathleen needs right now. Hugs to you sweetie. ~Lili

Anne - Fiona and Twig said...

Kathleen is so blessed to have a friend such as you!
She will be in my prayers in all the days ahead, and you will, too....I know how difficult this is for you as well.

Love you!
Anne

Brenda@Cozy Little House said...

With you by her side, she'll have a much easier load to bear. You're a good friend.
Brenda

Olive Cooper said...

Oh yes, I will pray for your darling Kathleen. For her healing and for strength. Also for you that you will be strong for her when she is not. May The God of All Comfort keep you both. grandehugs♥olive

Linda said...

OH Suzanne, I am sure you have a heavy heart today. How blessed you all are to have such a friendship as this...I will surely keep all of you in my prayers...XO

Indie.Tea said...

What a completely beautiful post...I am sending good wishes for your friend. {{{wishes}}}

La Dolfina said...

Absolutely Suzanne... she will be in my prayers daily from now on. She's so blessed to have you as her angel by her side. May God Bless you both!
xo

fairmaiden said...

Ahhh, I love seeing your journey and all the pics of you two best friends. I will begin praying for her. How lucky she is to have you by her side. I wish I had a friend like that. You are both so blessed to have each other. His love endures...and His love enables us to endure. ox

Laura said...

Dearest Suzanne-
The strength of women in friendship- especially a friendship such as yours-has a power beyond compare.
All of your blog friends are now praying.

Laura
White Spray Paint

A Vintage Chic said...

Oh, Suzanne! What a beautiful tribute to your lovely friend and your friendship--brought tears to my eyes!

She will be in my prayers...thanks for sharing this...

Julie

traci said...

What a beautiful, heartfelt post about your friend. I am also lucky to have friends that have been with you through many different stages in life. They make my life so much better.

I am so sorry about the battle ahead of Kathleen. She is in my prayers. It was a pleasure meeting her at the NaDa sale. She is so lucky to have you in her corner. Hugs to both of you.

The Zhush said...

Suzanne, I am so sorry to hear that someone you hold so dear to your heart is going thru such a tough and challenging time. Life can be so hard sometimes, we need our friends to lean on and see us through. Positive thoughts and prayers are heading your way and hers as well!
xx

Rosemarie said...

AFTER READING YOUR BEAUTIFUL WORDS I AM OUT OF WORDS.

JUST A BUMP IN THE ROAD. STAY POSITIVE. ALL GOOD NEWS FROM THIS KIND OF SUGERY THESE DAYS. A TIME TO REFLECT, AND KNOW THAT GOD WILL TAKE CARE. YOU WILL BOTH BE IN MY PRAYERS.

Beach House Living said...

Prayers to your friend Kathy during this uphill climb and for a full recovery. Yes, I completely understand about friends being closer then your own family. It is something so powerful and wonderful at the same time.

Miss Sew & So said...

oh my gosh you and kathy are blessed to have one another...i had tears streaming down my face...before i even got to the end of your post...i too am the over-emotional...i wish her every smile and all your friendship will get her through the nest few days and weeks....you have *chosen* each other...& the power of that choice is a rare and wonderful thing....
thinking of you both...
and sending hugs to you in your support and love of a dear friend..
melissa xx

shari @ little blue deer said...

I will be praying her her, Suzanne, I do believe in the power of prayer, it works. Thank you for sharing.

Castles Crowns and Cottages said...

Good morning dear one! Sooooo nice to see you come by. Yes, Nancy, Ruben's sister is so incredibly talented in so many ways, and especially with the camera. Her love for white slightly touched with soft color is a sight to behold in awe. Oh, I love FLOCON DE NEIGE for my little poupée! There are some lovely names pouring in!!!! I will announce next week!

Have a fabulous Minnesota summer day...isn't this a treat we are having this year?

BISOUS! Anita

Kathysue said...

Suzanne, I have tears in my eyes. I know exactly how you feel about your soul sister, that is what I call my BFF. God put us together in this journey we call life and there is no mistake about that. I will remember your sweet friend Kath and you also because I know you will be a big part of her strength. Sending love and prayers her way!! Kathysue

Alisa said...

Suzanne, I think those kind of friends and friendships are even more special because they didn't start out as family. I will be praying for your "sister".
Hugs,
Alisa

sherry said...

Whew....there is nothing better than a "best girlfriend"....and she is lucky to have you in her court, cheering her on. Your words made me cry.....I hope and pray for her good health to return.
Sherry

My Grama's Soul said...

I have always been closer to friends than family.

I'm saying a prayer from your dear friend.

XO

Jo

Sixty-Fifth Avenue said...

What a beautiful post for your best friend. I will say a prayer for her. She is lucky to have you.
Londen

June said...

Your sweet Kathleen will be in my prayers. What a beautiful post of the gift of friendship. Friendships like this come once in a lifetime and if you are lucky they last a lifetime. I know that your friend will be able to draw strength from you at this time and that you will be given enough strength to give and have some left to give to all those who already rely on it.

Thank you Suzanne for your dear words of encouragement and congratulations...they mean so much!
hugs

koralee said...

Oh you know you can count on me sweet one...I will be lifting your sweet sweet dear friend up in blessing and prayers. She is soooo blessed to have you...and you her!
Hugs...xoxxo

vignette design said...

Kathleen is in my prayers for a successful surgery and a full recovery. I believe in the power of prayer too and have faith your dear friend will be fine.
I just spent the weekend with my best friend/soul sister who is 9 years in remission.....
I'll be thinking of you both on the 27th.

Elizabeth said...

Praying!!! Beautiful post! So sorry to hear about your dear friend!
Elizabeth

eddieross said...

Many prayers and happy thoughts being sent her way.

xo

Eddie & Jaithan

pollydove said...

That really is such a lovely tribute to your close friend - "family" member. I have had my two closest girlfriends for 38 years now and it is truly a comfort and joy in my life. How wonderful that you too also have each other, through the good times and sad.

Absolutely sending prayers Kathleen's way and to you too! May God give you both strength to endure the journey that is close at hand. xo

Teresa said...

Yes! Friends can be closer than family and can indeed become family. How wonderful that Kathleen has you to help carry her burden during this time. My best wishes as she travels down the road ahead.

Ladyulia said...

nice blog
I'm glad to find it

Mary B. said...

Praying for Kathleen today, the 27th. My prayers will be with her throughout the day! Xox

Marie said...

Eternal friends, kindred spirit friends, friend of the heart and soul. I will keep your special friend Kathleen in my prayers. She is very lucky to have you as a special friend to take the journey with her. xxoo

pve design said...

My dearest friend gives me reason to live with gusto, she is now on year 6 since living with (the bonus) as she calls it - May the strength of friends give one another strength a will-power.
Each day is a gift.
pve

for the love of a house said...

Many thoughts and prayers to your dear friend, Kathleen today...
Godspeed.

joan

Ticking and Toile said...

Hi Suzanne,
I'm so sorry to hear your sweet friend has to go through that. :( Our family will keep her in our prayers. Love all the pictures of you guys....so sweet :)

xo,
Shellagh

lisaroyhandbags said...

My prayers and big hugs are with your dear friend Kathleen - I know that she will get through this just fine with all the love and support a special friend like you can provide for her - it means everything. xx

Vonda said...

Love and prayers to you.

Your friend has such a blessing in YOU. You have an opportunity to be her rock--to hold her up--God chose you for this job.

My daughter in law's sister just posted a wonderful encouraging post. If you have a chance--take a look. I thought of you and your friend as she faces the battle.
http://pickmeuppapers.blogspot.com/2010/07/i-am-survivor.html

Dumbwit Tellher said...

My prayers are with Kathleen as she walks this journey. Cancer has impacted the lives in my family so much in the last few years. I am a believer in prayer and in positive thinking. My heart goes out to Kathleen, her family and to her dear friends. You are so fortunate to have each other. Hugs to you both Suzanne. xoxo

Splendid Willow said...

Suzanne, sending your close sister-friend Kathleen warm thoughts and good energy all the way from Stockholm.

Love to you both, Mon

Kathy's Red Door Welcome said...

I totally missed this post because my youngest daughter was home for the first time in months. My prayers are certainly are on their way. I have a friend you suffered this same battle and she is now on the other side of her battle enjoying her life and cancer free. I sat through all of her chemo treatments and I think friendship and prayers can truly get us through our darkest hours.

I Love Pretty Little Things said...

Hello, I just found your blog from A Tattered Rose. I love his post about your friend, and I am so sad too. My very best friend, who just happens to be my sister, was just diagnosis with cancer. She has embarked on her journey too. You probably know at this point, if your friend's surgery went as planned, what her journey will be. I will be praying for you and checking back,
Joyce