7 Comments

I’m sure my emotional reaction to this snippet of your life is going to be different than most others because we are family. I really enjoyed this story. Thanks for sharing. David Burman

Expand full comment

Thanks so much, David! I don’t think we’ve ever met IRL but I so appreciate the support and I’m glad you enjoyed the glimpse into my childhood. 😊

Expand full comment

So lovely.

My best friend Brandie and I met in Kindergarten class and have remained close knit throughout our lives. She moved from our hometown of Round Rock at the end of our 6th grade year and it was THE WORST NEWS EVER. We pinky promised we would go to college together and actually did, for one year 🤣

Her Dad was my surrogate Dad. I remember one time I didn’t call my mom from a friends house when I was in 6th grade & had spent the night. She freaked out and showed up at my friends houses pissed the next morning. She told me in the car I was grounded and I went to my room really upset when we got home. About an hour later my mom came into my room and said I had a phone call. It was Brandie’s Dad telling me he was going to pick me up and take me to his house. That he knows I learned my lesson and needed to give my Mom a little break.

When I was in 6th grade, I was in a pageant and you had to have your Dad escort you for the formal wear. He walked me.

When I made the varsity softball team as a sophomore, which had never been done before, he sent me a hand written card telling me how proud he was of me.

Expand full comment

I love the Illie & Brandie story! So very special. And the bond you’ve described between you and her dad as well. What a treasure!!! Thank you so much for sharing. Family can extend so much beyond just what we are born into.

Expand full comment

This I know Sister ❤️

Expand full comment

You are my fam!

Expand full comment

At many difficult times of my life, simply the act of putting pencil to paper helped me sort out my thoughts and feelings. For me, drawing and painting, not so much words are my outlet. It has become my main vehicle for me to let go of intense feelings and help me cope.

I remember the day/evening you met Emily, and you both were so excited. It's one of those memories that seem frozen in time. You were instant kindred spirits. I love your expression and creativity. Keep writing!

Expand full comment