I’ve know my best friend for over eleven years now. We met at a children’s daycare in West Valley, which is somewhat strange since my youngest kiddo at the time was fifteen.  I was more interested in getting to know her sister and didn’t notice her at first. But fate, kismet, or just dumb luck stepped in and pushed us together, and I thank my lucky stars every day.

We’re alike in many ways. Both blond. Both need to lose weight. Both have bones that creak and pop now, especially in the morning. We both like Dairy Queen way too much, and we both do volunteer work.

We are there for each other in good times and bad. When she was bitten by a water moccasin, I took her to the doctor and spent a week caring for her swollen leg. She was by my side as I suffered through a strep throat, bronchitis, and sinus infection (all at the same time) and when I recuperated from an auto accident that left me with a broken ankle.

I spend more time with her than I do any family member or friend. A few years ago, I received an invitation to apply for a writing job that would require moving to Washington D.C. for a year. My husband was working in Texas, my son was away at college, and my daughter had married and moved to the Bozeman area. They all urged me to take the job. I agreed and started looking at apartments near where I’d be working. When I discovered my best friend would not be able to go with me, I nixed the move. I’d move without my husband or kids, but I wasn’t going anywhere without my best friend.

My best friend’s name is Jasmine, but I call her Jazzie. She is a beautiful, devoted, golden retriever who has for over eleven years delighted, protected, and inspired me. Most of all, she has given me her unconditional loyalty and love. What more could you ask for in a best friend?

Thanks for stopping by ——

Deborah