My GEM

Today in history, one of my BFF's was born. We met on a gondola at Squaw Valley in January of 1977... When we were ski lift operators. A long, long time ago! She teaches fifth grade in the Pacific Northwest, where she has lived for more than twenty years.

When I went to San Francisco for my dad's memorial last year, she flew down to be with me. Which was great, since my beloved had to stay here on the island and tend to the homestead. Her presence helped me get through that sad, intense time.

Here she is at Gino and Carlo's in North Beach. One of my dad's favorite haunts, going back to his younger days. We stopped in there the day after the aforementioned memorial. I am ever-thankful for her love and friendship. She is a shiny gem, no doubt about it! Coincidentally, that's what her initials spell.