Shari's big birthday

I met Shari so many years ago I don't even remember the year.

Our kids were very young and I think it was at a mutual doctor's office. 

Then, a year or two later (or maybe this encounter was first and the doctor's office second), we met again at a beach club where we shared, this time, a mutual friend.

And then, we had our third chance meeting at a theater. 

Several years after these brief encounters, my son was accepted into the Middle School at Horace Mann, where Shari's two sons had been since Nursery School. So I called Shari for advice, and we've been friends ever since.

And, to make a strong connection even stronger, Alexander has been friendly with Sam, Shari's older son, ever since as well.

Today my good friend celebrates a big birthday. 

My flash wasn't working and, I need a new camera; there is nothing about Shari in real life that is fuzzy. 

The other night, two of Shari's other friends threw an exquisite girls-only party. I think the invitation said it was for cocktails, but it was more like a gourmet feast.

















About 30 women come— including Shari's two close sisters, her childhood friends, her volunteer friends, her Horace Mann friends, her work friends, her workout friends, and many more. 

Later, we all tell a single memory about Shari. And what comes out in all the stories is Shari's big heart, thoughtfulness, and loyalty. If you are Shari's friend, you can count on her for anything. At least half the people in the room list Shari as their Emergency Contact.

Shari thinks and does things that few people would. Like making sure the kids of an injured mom still get to celebrate their birthdays. Or never flinching while holding a friend's hair back while she vomits from pain caused by a kidney stone. Or coming over the minute I mention I have back pain to help me with some stretching exercises she knows will help — and of course they do.

Shari is an excellent cook. Dinner at her house is always casual except for the amazing food she prepares. She is a mother to all our kids. She is the best resource when you need to know who is the best tailor, the best math tutor, the best doctor for any ailment, the best restaurant for a specific kind of food, or the best just-about-anything-else.

Shari knows more people than anyone I know. And these are not casual acquaintances. She actually knows them!

My friend is fun, kind, opinionated, strong, funny, complicated, and loving. I am so lucky to have her in my life.

Happy birthday dear Shari, and many many more.