My niece, Loreal, graduated from high school yesterday. I can't believe Loreal's all grown up now. She was the same age as my son when I graduated high school. Dang!! It's been THAT long?? Oh-me-oh-my!
Seeing Loreal with all her friends, hugging... laughing... smiling... posing for pictures... I started to reminisce about my graduation and my friends. We called ourselves the "Dope Female Crew." I can't believe I just said that out loud!! Sorry girls... I had to mention DFC.
DFC: Me, Liza, Apple, Sherry & Abby
Back then I didn't know what the future held for any of us. Would we still be friends in 5, 10, 20 years? It's been 16 years and I'm so happy to say, DFC lives on!! We're still the best of friends. We've supported one another through the good and bad, been bridesmaids for each other, godmothers to each other's kids, etc. I can honestly say that most of my fondest memories in life have been with these girls. I don't remember any of the speeches from my graduation, but I do remember the feeling of that day. Up until then, that was THE best day of my life. Remembering that feeling gets me excited for Loreal and what the future holds for her. Because my sister and I are very close, Loreal's always been like a daughter to me. I have so many hopes and dreams for her. I want to guide her and protect her, but still let her explore and live life to the fullest. It's exciting and scary all at the same time. I know that I won't be that person she goes to when she needs advice or support because I think I am like a mom to her. So, I wish her a DFC of her own to lean on, laugh with and make the best memories of her life with. Exciting times lies ahead...
