Remembering Vanessa on St. Patrick's Day

I have lost a number of friends over the years.

Vanessa was a very special one who left us too early.

She was a fiery Irish redhead

who could cut you to the quick

in that way only a true southern lady can do

if you needed it.

She was also as beautiful as a model on the outside

and perfect as an angel on the inside.

You couldn't even be jealous.

Vanessa was an artist

and I have every decorated envelope 

from every letter she sent.

She made even those simple things special.

She was my self appointed cheerleader

and my friend.

She loved dogs and kids and flowers and words and the beach,

and St. Patrick's Day was her favorite holiday.

So I remembered my friend, Vanessa, as I made these cards.

I have been picking and pressing four leaf clovers for several weeks

 now as my mother used to do.

I lightly glued them to cardstock which I then laminated 

so they can be used as bookmarks

and slid them into the front of these cards.

And I will keep one to remember how lucky I am.

There are angels who walk among us.

Treasure them while you can.