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Friends of the Heart Part Two

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More Delightful Friends

Only death can separate me from my friends, and even then they are never far from me.

Friends brighten and expand my world.

My original friendship lens featured long time friends, some going back fifty years or more. This second friendship lens features people I've met in recent years but who still hold an important place in my heart. They're a diverse group of interesting, accomplished people. Most of them I know only through the computer, but they still hold an important place in my life.

Now, settle back and read all about them. I've listed them in alphabetical order. All hold equal importance in my world.

When the trials of life blow out my soul's flame,
friends help rekindle it.

JANE BURKHEAD

It was a toss up whether to put Jane into Friends Part 1 or this one. I've known her many years, but we didn't become true friends until later in our acquaintance.

Jane and her husband live on a busy highway. Their home is an oasis for drivers amidst rolling fields and prairies. Trees, flowers, and charming gardens come alive in spring and summer. Christmas lights color the darkness on winter nights. She's creative, compassionate, and has a cheery personality.

In addition to being a friend, Jane is a "Laurel booster" when it comes to my writing. She takes great delight in anything I write. Jane isn't a writer, but her gifts are many and varied.

Jane has a kind and generous heart. Although we rarely get to spend time together, I treasure her presence in my life.

A faithful friend is the medicine of life.

ERIC BURTON

Living with retinitis pigmentosa

Eric left the world of business when retinitis pigmentosa robbed him of effective vision. Still, he manages to write a popular political blog and just had his second book published. I don't know how he manages to write, considering his vision problems.

You may hear Eric rant about politics and politicians, but you will NEVER hear him whine about his near-blindness. For Eric Burton, his cup is always half full. He doesn't wallow in self pity or expect preferred treatment from the world. I admire his philosophy of life.

Eric considers me a friend and I return that favor. He's an honorable man with a delightful sense of humor. I'm proud to know him.

See a link to Eric's political blog in the link list below. We don't always agree politically, but true friends don't have to agree on everything.

You can also find out more about Eric on Facebook.

The only unsinkable ship is friendship.

TODD HUNTER

Sci fi writer

type=textI'm not a sci fi devotee, but Todd's booka are among my favorites. Todd's success as a writer of novels and short stories pleases me no end. I'm like a proud mother, beaming at even small triumphs in his life.

Sometimes, in my days as a book reviewer, a book revealed to me the true persona of the writer. That's how it was with Todd. I've had dinner several times with Todd and his wife in Wichita. His self-effacing humor is appealing and delightful. His heart is big and compassionate. The main male character in Todd's book might as well be him.

Todd supports and encourages me as a writer and a person. I'm happy to call him friend.

See a link to Todd's blog in the link list below.

You can also find out more about him by following Todd -- as Aston West -- on Twitter and Facebook.

Faithful friends are beyond price.
No amount can balance their worth.

SHIRLEY JOHNSON

Pastor & Christian & children's book writer

I've known Shirley Johnson (no relation) for quite a few years, first as a writer, then as a friend and book reviewer. Shirley co-pastors a small church with her husband and lives by faith. Everything she is and everything she has comes from God's grace.

Shirley is one of the most prolific writers I know. Her many novels and e-books can be found on Amazon. Some speak to adult sorrows and triumphs, others are loaded with rib splitting humor, and some are creative, colorful books for children.

Simply being Christian is no guarantee that life will be kind. Shirley has had her struggles, but keeps pressing on towards her goals of the moment. I admire that. Her compassion and concern for me amidst her own personal trials tethers my heart to hers.

The links to Shirley's work on Amazon are too numerous to list here. Just simply go to Amazon and write in "Shirley Priscilla Johnson" some day when you have lots of time. The link to her website is in the link list at the end of this lens.

A friend loveth at all times.

NANCY MEHL

Christian mystery writer

When I first met Nancy, she wrote mystery suspense novels. A couple of her early novels literally scared the bejabbers out of me!! I've been a fan of hers since reviewing her first book. Since then, she's become a successful Christian mystery writer. But long before that happened, she was my friend.

Her friendship has been a blessing to me. She's even reached the exalted status of "Laurel's Keeper" -- one of the few trusted people who drive me around and look out for me in case dissociative disorder should rear its ugly head.

I've hung out with Nancy, her kindly husband, and talented son many times in Wichita. They are a family of faith, devoted to their God and church family. Nancy thanks God for everything she's accomplished in life and I find that comforting.

I'm blessed to have Nancy as a friend. Her heartfelt support of my life and my work has been a godsend.

Find out more about Nancy in the link list at the end of this lens. You can also find her on Facebook.

A friend is a gift you give yourself.

CHRISTINA PACOSZ

Poet & writer

Christina is one of a handful of friends who keep me "lined out" as Mom used to call it. She tells me when I blunder, and sends me information that will add to my body of knowledge. And yes, she also lends support when I stumble.

Christina is a poet of exceptional skill. That's what drew me to her at the beginning of our friendship. Her poetry stunned me to silence. Whether writing about the birds in her yard or the Holocaust or injustice around the world, Christina's poems manage to convey beauty. Only a healthy heart and spirit can find beauty amidst chaos and cruelty.

Her friendship enriches my life. I'm so thankful we met. Christina doesn't have a website or blog. But if you simply write her name into the search bar of your computer, you'll find a treasure trove of information. You will also find her on Facebook now.

I love my friends because they tend to bring out the best in me.

STEPHANIE SAWYER

Musician & writer

I love this picture of Stevie because her personality is so evident in face and body language. Her capacity to love is bottomless.

Stevie is another writer whose work I reviewed and admired. Her life has not been easy, but she did not allow physical and personal trials to wreck the gifts God gave her. She's a classically trained pianist in addition to being a writer. She has a great appreciation for beauty and excellence. Her Christian faith is foremost in her life. No matter what happens, she keeps her eyes on Jesus and treks forward. I admire that sort of courage and perseverance. Her published books have become an extension of Stevie's philosophy -- lessons she shares to help others who need support and guidance.

Stevie is a loving and supportive friend. I don't need to see her every day to know she's only an email away if I need her support. Her presence in my life is a delightful gift.

Stevie is an active member of the Squidoo family. Learn more about her in the Squidoo links on the link list at the end of this lens.

To have a friend you must be a friend.

THIS LENS BLESSED BY SQUID ANGELS

THANK YOU, ANGELS

HONOR MY FRIENDS WITH YOUR COMMENT

  • Tipi Jan 31, 2012 @ 8:34 pm | delete
    Your friends are in your compute and more importantly locked safely in your heart where no virus or trojan can get to them....blessing this love!
  • ShirlW May 3, 2011 @ 8:59 am | delete
    This is just a gem. How sweet of your to honor your friends like this.Blessed by a Squid Angel today and lensrolled to Quotes On Friendship
  • skiesgreen Apr 7, 2011 @ 5:40 pm | delete
    This is such a unique lens and great friends are like gold. Unfortunately, as you age, they drop off the tree and the closer you get to the top or, perhaps, the riper you become yourself the more you tend to remember and miss them.
  • LoKackl Apr 4, 2011 @ 8:17 pm | delete
    So sweet! They're lucky to have you, too.
  • Karen McPherson Mar 9, 2010 @ 6:13 pm | delete
    We have fond memories of Eric Burton. We didn't get to share our friendship together long enough before he moved away. We miss you Eric!
  • Feb 1, 2010 @ 6:39 pm | delete
    Very good, informative lens...
    Surely deserves to be favorited and 5 stars...
  • lollyj Jan 12, 2010 @ 10:57 am | delete
    I'm the queen of "old-timeitis" Julie so you're in good company here!!
    Thanks to everyone who stopped my to meet my friends.
  • JaguarJulie Jan 12, 2010 @ 10:20 am | delete
    This has been a reflection of mine over the past several weeks -- contemplating true meaning of friendship and waxing philosophically about life. Old-timeritis I fear. ;)
  • JaguarJulie Jan 12, 2010 @ 10:21 am | delete
    See! I knew this was true -- that I would be found repeating myself and here is the proof. ;)
  • JaguarJulie Jan 12, 2010 @ 10:19 am | delete
    This has been a reflection of mine over the past several weeks -- contemplating true meaning of friendship and waxing philosophically about life. Old-timeritis I fear. ;)
  • bluegirl007 Apr 28, 2009 @ 5:27 am | delete
    Moved, appreciate the friendship you have with your friends, wish all happy and health!
  • bluegirl007 Apr 28, 2009 @ 5:27 am | delete
    Moved, appreciate the friendship you have with your friends, wish all happy and health!
  • OhMe Apr 24, 2009 @ 6:46 am | delete
    This is beautifully done. Great job. Aren't friends wonderful!
  • Nancy Mehl Apr 15, 2009 @ 7:01 pm | delete
    What a lovely surprise to find me mentioned here. Of course, being called your friend is one of the very best honors I could ever be granted.

    Lolly, you are so talented and special - but even if you didn't have more writing talent in your pinky than most folks have in their whole body - you'd still be a rare treasure.

    You're one of my very best blessings.

    Miss you, my friend. Hope to see you this summer!

    Nancy
  • T. M. Hunter Apr 12, 2009 @ 5:01 pm | delete
    It is all of us who are lucky to count you as our friend, Laurel. You (and Nancy as well) have both been a source of inspiration, support and encouragement through these many years that we've known each other.
  • Christina Pacosz Apr 12, 2009 @ 12:59 pm | delete
    Knowing you are out there on the prairie west of me is a real plus. I think of you often. Thanks so much for your kind words and also including me in such wonderful company.
  • Shirley Apr 11, 2009 @ 7:39 pm | delete
    My sweet and faithful friend,

    Thank you for your kind words and thank you for always, and I mean always, being there for me. I don't think there is anything that I could not share with you, and there are few that I can say that about. Your strength, your love, and always knowing all I have to do is give a yell and you'll be there for me, has been an extension of God through you to me. You are NEVER too busy, or too tired to stop and take a moment to encourage me. When God made you, He sat back and smiled, for He knew YOU were one of the best. I thank God that He allowed you into my life and I will always cherish you as a friend, now and throughout eternity. I believe that the best is yet to come for you and you will be showered with all the love and goodness you have given to so many.

    Lots of love,
    Shirley
  • stevie10772 Apr 10, 2009 @ 10:24 pm | delete
    Lolly: All of us here, and many others whom you have written about it, know that YOU are the brightly tested and now brilliant diamond that shines with light pouring upon it. That is why we are all so drawn to you. And that is why you have so many friends! Dear One, I cannot even fathom my life before you came into it. What a deep change and high impact you have made upon it.

    And now, thank you for introducing us all to each other..... we sure have heard alot about each other!

    All My Love, and My Biggest Texas Hug,
    Stevie
Show All

LEARN MORE ABOUT MY FRIENDS AT THESE LINKS

Eric Burton's Website and Blog
Reviews, interviews, Eric's philosophy, and his political blog are on this site.
Many of his blog posts have been published in the op ed section of major newspapers.
T.M. Hunter's Blog
Aston West is the main character in Tim's book, and his alter ego.
His blog is mostly writing related, featuring progress on short story
acceptance, writing goals, and personal thoughts.
T.M. Hunter's Personal Website
A different variety of info here than you'll find on his blog.
Jesus In Song
Shirley Johnson writes beautiful praise music in addition to books. You'll find listed here music CDs available, books she's written, and other interesting tidbits.
Reviews by Nancy Mehl and others of Mystery Series Books
If you enjoy series book clubs and cozy mysteries, her is where you'll find reviews of the best of the genre.
Nancy Mehl's Blog
Read about Nancy and her mystery books here.
Nancy Mehl's Personal Website
Her work, her philosphy, and what's happening in her world is here.
Stephanie Sawyer's Personal Squidoo Page
Learn about the woman and writer here.
Stephanie Sawyer's Victory Over Epilepsy
As an epileptic since childhood, Stephanie shares her experiences and her courageous outlook here.
Stephanie Sawyer -- Seizures Vs. Demons
Stevie knows all about the sort of misconceptions people hold about epilepsy. Here, she shares one experience.
Stephanie Sawyer -- How It Feels to Experience a Seizure
Stevie tries to educate readers with information from her own personal experience.
Stephanie Sawyer -- The Sweetness of Love
Love, cooking, and family traditions.
Stephanie Sawyer -- Love, Cows and Pigs
A humorous chapter in Stevie's marriage. A Texas rodeo captivates a city girl here.
Stephanie Sawyer -- About Facing Me
Stevie's first book was Facing Me -- here experience with epilepsy and other trials. I was determined to know Stevie better after reading this excellent book.
Stephanie Sawyer -- Want to Play the Piano?
Stevie is a classically trained pianist who teaches others to play. She loves music. This lens introduces readers to music and the piano and tells about pitfalls.
Stephanie Sawyer -- Simple Love Gestures
Stevie's thoughts on long term marriage and love.
Stephanie Sawyer -- Who Are the Homeless
Stevie's heartfelt commentary on the subject of homelessness inspired me to make my own lens on the homeless.
Stephanie Sawyer -- An Unforgettable Thanksgiving
Fond memories of the Thanksgiving dinner Stevie's hubby cooked, while she relaxed and enjoyed the day.

by

lollyj

Thanks for stopping by! I'm a retired Registered Nurse with a second career as a writer. My two favorite creations are published through Dandelion B... more »

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