“The Big Four” met in North Carolina to enjoy the simple moments of life together; to sit on the porch drinking café au lait; to visit about old times and new; and to eat “crawfish etouffe”. You see, they have known each other since before kindergarten. Their parents were friends, their siblings are interactive in their lives, and their children visit.

These four best friends grew up in New Orleans, went to Allen Elementary School, joined the same Brownie Troop and played together on the weekends. On the school playground one day they discovered each had a distinguishing birthday: Jan 1, New Year’s Day; Feb. 14, Valentines Day; Feb. 22, George Washington’s Birthday; and June 28, WWI Declaration Day; thus the name "The Big Four”. They knew sign language, so communication was easy in class; they even used invisible ink for notes; they read all of the Nancy Drew Mysteries.

As elementary school drew to a close they went to different high schools, yet stayed in the same Girl Scout Troop. The leader, a Big Four Mom, held them together with doughnuts at meetings, sailing on the weekends at the Yacht Club, and parties with a Boy Scout Troop.

After graduation three colleges were chosen, then Marriage, Masters Degrees, the Peace Corp and husbands in the Military Service. They kept in touch with cards and calls, and attended weddings and funerals. Then fourteen years ago they met for the first of seven reunions, traveling from four different cities. This is a unique friendship filled with unconditional love and significant support. They show up for each other.

• Friendships provide happiness as well as enrich and extend our lives.
  
  
• Do you have a circle of loyal friends?
  
  
• Friendships takes nourishment, attention and time. Are you willing to give?
  
  
• As a coach, I challenge you to call, write, e-mail, or send a “happy” to a friend. Let me hear how it goes.

With warm regards,

Susan Sadler Hayman
International Life Transitions Coach
Call me at 662-238-7754