Diane is one of my BFFs who she and I sometimes let long stretches go without seeing each other in person, or even connecting with via phone, text or social media. We know each other is "out there" though. Being that this was the last week of our Christmas Break we sought an occasion to meet for lunch. Yes, I did also have cup of coffee. (I couldn't not have one my very first week of posting!)
I first met Diane in 1994 when I got my first full time teaching gig at Airdrie Middle School. She was the grade 6 resource teacher (teacher friends, can you even imagine, now, having a full time learning support teacher per grade?!) and I was covering a grade 6 homeroom which included many of the students with whom she would be working. One of my first memories of Diane was her touring me around the school, introducing me to new colleagues as "Laura". I remember punching her good-naturedly in the arm after a repeated time of her doing this and then instantly regretting it; I had only known her for an hour! Thankfully she wasn't put off by my infraction into her personal space and our relationship continued...
Out 6 years together as colleagues, and even team-teaching partners was seamless, fun and was the foundation upon which our friendship was built. But our bond goes far beyond the job. While we continue to enjoy professional conversations we also share other interests. Family is important to both of us. Our handyman husbands have a lot in common about which we commiserate (we love you Mark and Derek!). I proudly co-emcee'd her wedding in 2007. We are also proud Aunties who brag about nieces and nephews. Under the guise of professional development and conferences Diane and I have enjoyed travelling together, as long as the destination includes either a Macy's (that girl can shop!) or an Earl's (not very "international" but I can't recall an ATA Summer Conference in Banff when we didn't have at least one dinner there.) We share a love of games, animals, civic pride and Grey's Anatomy.
Diane is a very resilient person who has bravely fought through losing her dad far too young, conquering health battles and, most recently, dealing with being evacuated from her home for 6 months following last year's flood. She is a sincere and honest lady and someone I'm proud to have shared my first of fifty-two cups of coffee in 2014.
Happy "20th Anniversary" Diane!
XO
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