Y'all say Heeeey to Catherine!!!
Catherine and I have known one another since the fourth grade. THE. FOURTH. GRADE. We're reaching 30, so you guys do the math. This woman is without a doubt a diamond. The smile you see in the photo above is how I've ALWAYS known Catherine- positive, cheerful. Even when I've seen her sad that smile was always right behind it. She has NEVER switched up her personality for anyone or anything. She has always stayed true to herself, she's NEVER passed judgment on others, and she's so loving y'all. Catherine is really one of those people you always want to hang with. Her spirit is contagious!! You can't help but be in a good mood around her because she won't let you be sad for too long.
When I had my 2 oldest daughters, Catherine (and her mama) came to see me both times. I never told her how much that meant to me. She's been a consistent friend in my life and we don't have to speak daily to know that the love is there. I'm so proud of her, literally, I'm proud of her entire life. She never quit on her goals, she's an excellent mother, and now she's married!! I just love her so much and I'm getting emotional writing this.
When I asked her what makes her most proud to be a woman, she said:
Okay. I'm proud to be the first one in my family to get a Bachelors Degree. Proud to be a mother of 2 smart young black boys. Proud of having the strength to work for all I have. Proud of being with my husband for 10 years and (now) married to him. Proud to come from a strong black woman who has raised her kids to be strong black individuals of society.
Catherine is a light. If you ever meet her, you'll see what I mean. I'm so blessed to know her. Today, I honor you girl!