“ Long time friends have a way of touching and impacting our lives in ways never imagined. As we all try to find our own place in this ever changing world, it’s comforting to know, that even though we are separated by time, distance or circumstance, what remains constant is an unspoiled bond of love and loyalty that can be depended upon for a lifetime. One of God’s most special gifts…..is friendship.” -Jason Versey
Dear Kana,
Happy 55th Birthday! The above quote encapsulates the essence of the bond that we all share and have been so blessed to experience over these many years. (Almost 50!)
Dear Kana,
Happy 55th Birthday! The above quote encapsulates the essence of the bond that we all share and have been so blessed to experience over these many years. (Almost 50!)
As I sit and contemplate our friendship over the years, I am filled with such a sense of gratitude, as I am aware that many people aren’t as fortunate to ever experience this level of love, acceptance and commitment within a relationship. This is such a wonderful opportunity to be able to put in writing how much your friendship means to me and thank you for all of your beautiful qualities.
So many memories, starting with OLOL..in our plaid jumpers and skirts…ahh, the beginning of such a wonderful adventure of friendship! Campfire girls, birthday parties, stories of your cruise in 8th grade, Great America in crop tops. Then on to high school…where it really began. Basketball games and practices, backroad adventures, river outings, dating boys…studying for western civ, make-up lessons, kissing lessons, teaching me how to put in a tampon (🤣🤣🤣🤣), afternoons at the Hansen house, pool parties, photo shoots, hearing about this hunk David from the debate meet, and then meeting him! Graduation from SV. The list goes on and on. Campcoon adventures, engagements, weddings, funerals, landmark birthdays……we have been through it all. We have been through it all as close friends. Something I treasure immensely. I know that Dave, Andy and Duane are looking down on you with absolute pride and love as you celebrate this birthday. I know they are celebrating with the rest of us…just beyond the veil. Know that!
And now, I thank you………
Thank you for always being so positive and optimistic. Thank you for being such a great listener, for providing not only support, but solutions. Thank you for your amazing insights and constant advice. Thank you for accepting me for who I am and what I do…without judgement. Thank you for calling me out when need be. Thank you for being there in good times and hard times. Thank you for your take charge personality and for your most excellent planning skills. Thank you for your constant generosity and for providing me experiences that I would not have otherwise. Thank you for being the “rock” of our group…the “mother hen”, if you will. Thank you for being a voice of reason, a calm port in the storm. Thank you for the laughs AND the tears. Thank you for your encouragement and the nuggets of wisdom that you provide. Thank you for “checking in” with me, as you know that I sometimes go MIA. Thank you most of all for allowing me to walk beside you in this journey called life, and leaving your footprints in my heart.
You are like a big sister to me, and I so greatly appreciate that. You are such an amazing, strong, gifted woman and I am so proud to be able call you my friend. I am so happy to be celebrating you, Dana Jean! May this next year bring you happiness, peace and all that you desire and DESERVE! I thank God for having you in my life.
HAPPY BIRTHDAY, my friend, I love you 💜