If you’re a lover of Hip Hop then you’ll remember the song I’m referring to in my title.  It’s titled FRIENDS and it’s by Whodini.  The song asks, “Friends–how many of us have them?  Friends–ones we can depend on?”  For me, the connection between family and friends is ESSENTIAL to an abundant life.  What I’ve come to know is that people have different definitions of “friendship” - different categories of “friends.”  I am really slow to categorize someone as a “friend” because I know not everyone can fit my definition.  I’ve been burned a few times in the past  so now I am more concerned with quality vs. quanity.   The people in my life I consider friends are loyal, trustworthy, honest (sometimes, brutally honest), humble, family-oriented, kind-hearted, and they give as much as they receive.  My life is enhanced by their presence–not drained.  They are the type of people who in an emergency  I can call at 2 AM and they’ll be there for me in a heartbeat–without hesitation or questions asked.  They are the type of people I call on to surround me when I celebrate life - birthdays, anniversaries, holidays - or just an afternoon lunch with the kids.  They are the type of people who will drive from Florida to Texas for a 3-day weekend to celebrate her best friend’s daughter’s birthday!  Her best friend will then in turn, without being asked,  throw a birthday party  for her visiting best friend’s son who is turning 5.  Those are the kind of people I am FRIENDS with - my beloved Amigas.  

I was overjoyed this past weekend to photograph my friend’s son who is turning 5.  It’s such a monumental birthday–he’s officially moved into the “Big Boy” category.  It’s such a privilege for my camera and I to witness and capture this special moment in time.  I also had a chance to capture a few shots of his sugary sweet baby sister (one of the sweetest souls I know).  While we were wrapping up the session, I couldn’t help but get a few shots of my friend.  She has such a beautiful, kind spirit and has one of the biggest hearts of anyone I know.  I hope you can see that spirit radiate through her genuine, infectious smile and honest, generous eyes.    She’s that quiet person standing in the back who asks for no recognition, who gives her heart totally and without hesitation, but who never expects or wants anything in return.  Doesn’t she make gorgeous babies? 

I had a beautiful weekend filled with family, friends, opportunities to create memories, strengthen bonds, to witnesses and take part in the fleeting moments that make up this wonderful ride called “Life.” I have a neighbor who I love dearly and who says it best.  Every time I see and greet her, I stop and ask, “Hey, Ms. Sandra, how ya doing?”  Without fail, she always responds in this strong southern accent that I so love, “I’m blessed and highly favored by the LAWWWWWD.” It makes me smile every…single… time because I know exactly what she means.  Having people in your life who you love and who love you back is the ultimate blessing. 

Happy Birthday, Spiderman.  *Love You*

~Peace, Love, Joy & Abundance~