Searching for the Mentors Within

I spent the better part of this past week house bound from the BIG Northwest Deep Freeze, aside from some chilly walks through the snow to my friend Marsha's house. Marsha is a gorgeous, statuesque 73 year old with snow white hair, a delightful wardrobe & a vibrant quick wit. She creates stunning designer clothes, rows early in the morning on the Puget Sound, volunteers & has hosted 'Art Night' two times a month for several years now.

Her loyal friendship has been a Godsend to me since she showed up at my Art Studio Walk all those years ago. Gabe was yet to be 'fully' diagnosed, my marriage was yet to end & I was still teaching at a local college. Our mutual friend Suzanne was also still alive & on one birthday they graciously went in together to make sure I received this wonderful coat Marsha made, which I coveted but could not afford : >

A few days ago Marsha's husband, who was several years her senior, passed away at home. Three weeks ago we were walking together while she shared his diagnosis; then hospitalized, then on hospice & finally peacefully passing at home, the way it should be. I've been checking in on her daily & of course she's doing great. He was 16 years her senior, much less energetic & I sense some relief as she charges up the next hill of in her life story. I've been looking around for mentors lately as I navigate career change, aging parents & being an older parent to Gabe. Her, along with many other wonderful women who have so gracefully graced my life; some near, some far, some appropriately moved on, have been & are ALL part of my mentor quilt within. Thanks Lovely Ladies; you know who you are. xoxo