Outside of my family, my friendships are very important to me. They have become even more so this year during lockdown and the continuing stressors of this year.  There are many women that I am so thankful for that have recently come into my life due to children’s friendships and others that I have been friends with for decades like my friend Tanya Foster.  There is no underestimating the importance of friendship!

On Tanya: Blazer / Denim / Turtleneck Sweater / Handbag / Similar Heels  On me:  Theory Short Dress / Similar Boots / Slouchy Tote (see more in this post!)

You have met Tanya on the blog before here, here and here. It’s funny that people still don’t realize that we have been friends for more than 20 years. Most people think we met when we started blogging but it was actually Tanya who encouraged me to start blogging after she did a few months before.

We took these photos recently in support of Partner’s Card, a Dallas fundraising initiative that supports The Family Place, I wonderful nonprofit that supports families in crisis due to domestic violence.  Your purchase of a Partner’s Card,supports these much needed programs and gives you 20% off at retailers in the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex as well as 10% off of restaurant dining from October 30-November 8.  There are may retailers offering the discount on their websites, too, so if you aren’t in Dallas, no problem!  You can learn more about Partner’s Card here.

Volunteering together as we have done for decades felt oddly “normal. “ It  made us think that we should share our thoughts on the importance of friendship especially during this time and keeping in touch with friends who lift you up.  We have a saying in my home, “Laughter is good for the soul!” and these conversations with her are typically full of that!

Whether it has been daily texts and phone calls or more recently as our state opened, casual lunches, Tanya and my close friends have been a big part of my sanity during this time.  Continued connection with those who know us well can help when you are feeling down, lonely, angry or upset.  I have also continued my weekly prayer time with two of my best friends to pray for each other and our families over FaceTime and then back to in person outdoor lunches at my home and then our usual Cafe as soon as we were able.

We are very lucky that Texas is open and we can see our friends and family.  If you aren’t in an area that is or if your nearest and dearest live far away, you can still stay in touch!  Daily or weekly calls and texts are a great way to stay caught up and brighten someones day.  Everyone needs to know others are thinking of them!  You can also send a gift like flowers or a sweet treat.  I’ve gathered a few ideas below.  If you have a college student, don’t miss this College Care Package post.  Also, don’t forget to use your Partner’s Card if you are in Dallas.  You’ll lift more people than you’ll ever know by supporting them.

I’d love to know ways you have stayed in touch with friends and family during this time.  I know we could all use a bit of inspiration and kindness these days!

xo

Alicia

Easy Gift Ideas You Can Send/Ship To Loved Ones

Spoonful of Comfort is a soup delivery service that offers a range of gourmet soups as well as gluten-free and vegan soup options! The company also offers gift packages fit for all kinds of occasions whether its welcoming a new baby, wishing someone get well, or even just because.

Greetabl offers an affordable way to send a sweet, personalized gift to friends and family. Each box contains photos you’ve uploaded along with a custom message and a small present of your choice, like Sugarfina gummies or a miniature candle.

Winc is a great option to send to your friend that loves wine! You can gift a 1, 2, or 3 month subscription to this fun take on a wine club that makes exploring wines fun and easy.

Knack offers thoughtfully curated, nicely priced little gifts guaranteed to brighten their day! I love that you can create your own gift to send on their website. Also, they do a great job of helping you shop by recipient, interests, or occasion at all price points!