LIFEBYTES: The Company You Keep

me and some of my closest friends!

     Truth be told, for many years I kind of made myself believe that I didn't need "girlfriends". I had a best friend (in my adult life) a long time ago and the relationship just soured over time and afterwards I didn't entertain the idea anymore of having a best friend and the term "girl time" well, that just became foreign to me! I was resigned to the idea that my family was all I needed. My husband and kids were my best friends. I didn't need anyone else in order for me to feel fulfilled right?  But deep inside I was a little sad.

     And then I found Youtube. At first I was merely a viewer, then eventually a commenter. I connected with some really wonderful women through YT and Instagram and a year ago decided to put myself on camera to show myself and of course to let these women know I was a real person behind the screenname :-)  I have been very lucky to have made "real" friends. And when I say real friends, I am talking about the kind you talk with - outside of all the social media, the kind you actually share intimate details about yourself with. Some of these friends live in other states, and some even live in other countries! And some of them are right here living in the NY/NJ area!

     For the first time in a long time I belonged.  I am someone's friend and even best friend. And I realized girlfriends are a MUST!  We need them to vent to, to laugh with, to share girly things with, and yes to gossip with lol! Who knew that at the age of 40 I would find lifelong friends?  I didn't think it was possible.  Over the past year alone we have nurtured our friendships by having that oh so foreign "girl time" lol! We have shared laughter and tears. We have celebrated birthdays, baby showers, bridal showers and most recently a wedding!  And we just keep growing closer to each other.

     And the best part of being friends with those beautiful women above is the support and encouragement that circulates among us.  We are constantly influencing each other in positive ways!  I don't think I have ever walked away from a get together without my heart feeling full and my mind refreshed!

    I am so thankful that I was given a chance to experience friendship once again. I've come to realize having friends makes me a happier and less stressful person. I worry a little less, I love a little more. I am a fitter and healthier ME! In turn all of that benefits my family :-) I become a better partner and a better mom!

     Guess I did need friends...more than I ever knew :-)

     Do you have a circle of girlfriends? How have they enriched your lives? I'd love to hear from you! Let me know in the comment section below :-)