Mommy magic, Kathleen Clarke

I saw the sign and it read, "Princess Holly".   Strange and true it was 1999 when I walked off the plane as the regional alumnae director, volunteer for Alpha Phi International sorority. Kathleen was an alumnae chapter leader for the San Jose State chapter. I'd never met her and she was hosting me in her home. I was scared nervous and unsure about the role I had accepted.  The idea of staying with a stranger was a little foreign. Soon after her name became Kat and the memory making began.

Over the years our friendship as with life has seen some pretty cool things.  I was there the first day Madeline went to school.  We've been wine tasting and outlet shopping.  Watched the girls dance at Disneyland and get every princess autograph.  Today I dream of sitting at her daughter’s graduations.   Yes, Kathleen and I will be the embarrassing ones in the front row with signs of the girls on their first day of school.

Over the years we've kept Hallmark in business with, yes snail mail cards. Cause Kathleen refuses to get on Facebook.  Have you ever wondered who sends the cards for the strange holidays, Halloween, or July 4, Kathleen and I do? 

Every woman should have a friend like Kathleen. One that is so different from you she lights the room just being in it. We have different career and mommy paths, different ideas on what is PC to say and what is not, a way different view on religion and parenting.  Kathleen, as a California girl her whole life I had to teach her coat wardrobes, and, I as an Oregon girl Kathleen teaches me about places you wear shorts year round.  When I lose my way she comes and kicks my butt back in line, reminds me who I am.

Now when the girls, Kathleen, Madeline and Gabrielle pick me up there is still a sign... Only now it says "Auntie, Holly". That's the magic of love, time, and of sisterhood, and Alpha Phi.  I am a better and changed woman every time I am in your presence Kathleen.  Thanks for being you and sharing you with me.