Hi there! I’m Andie. Nice to meet you. And, I really do mean that!
It’s so interesting to meet new people – stranger friends, as I like to say. I love all the different personalities. And the stories that you all have. It’s fascinating!
Like my sweet Mom would say, “A stranger is a friend you haven’t met yet.” and I’ll tell you, that woman never met a stranger. She had quite an eclectic collection of friends.
You’ll hear more about my Mom later. You’ll love her. Not only was she an amazing woman, but she was a mess — in a good way — fun and funny.
Embrace individuality and be kind to yourself.
One of the best lessons I learned from her is how to laugh at myself. I’m not easily embarrassed, and believe me, my kids have tried. Everybody makes mistakes. I’m no better than anybody else. We all use the potty (if you know what I’m saying).
I believe that we’re all perfectly imperfect, just the way we should be. Everyone has their own unique personality and style. We’ve all lived our own experiences. That’s what makes each of us extraordinary — that includes you. Don’t worry about what other people think of you. Be yourself — loud and proud.
Go ahead and take that literally if you want. It’s super fun and great therapy. Put on a happy song and let ‘er rip! Sing it loud and proud. My girls always did this (drove their brother nuts).
When I need a boost, I put on my “Happy Playlist” then sing and dance around the house. Makes me feel fantastic! To all my neighbors, I do apologize. But, man, is it fun!
It doesn’t matter what you look like in the mirror. You’re beautiful. Everyone is beautiful. Beauty can’t always be captured by a camera. It’s a feeling that you emanate (word of the day) and it enhances all of your other qualities. It’s part of your spirit, your zhuzh, your mojo. Everyone has it, even if they don’t always show it. You’ve got it, so go ahead and let it shine.
Be comfortable in your own skin — and clothes.
Now don’t get me wrong, I totally understand. There are beautiful things like flowers, art, music, etc. I like pretty things as much as the next person and I have the receipts to prove it. Just ask my husband. I know he’ll agree with an eerie cheery smile on his face.
For example, I’m an avid fan of clothes. Wear them as much as I can, as I’m sure most of us do (and as long as we’re not alone in the house). My style ranges from quirky to conservative depending on how I feel. Dress for what makes you feel best.
My funky clothes feel “happy” and help me stay that way. When I need to decompress, I go for comfort — first and foremost. Anyone for a pajama party?
I love seeing how other people dress. It’s like a free daily fashion show for the every person. How confident some people are. It’s totally inspiring. Now that’s beautiful!
But beware, you get what you pay for. This fashion show is free and not everyone’s appropriate. Yah, you know who I’m talking to …
So, how are you? I really mean that, too.
When I say this to someone, they can be sure that if I didn’t want to know, I wouldn’t ask. That’s how I am.
Go ahead and spill it. Tell me what’s up — or down; if you’re feeling good or totally ticked off about something.
I’m your ear, your shoulder, your hug, or your kick in the pants. I’m here, what do you need? If I can’t help, I’ll at least let you know that, too. I won’t leave you hanging. That’s what friends are for.
Imagine if we never had anyone to talk to?
I’d talk to myself more than I do now. Good Lord! It would be full-on conversations. I’d have to give myself a second name so if someone walked in on me, they would think I was using an earpiece. It would confirm all those rumors about me.
Thank goodness there’s someone there for us. Shout out to my furr babies (you know who you are) and to all the fuzzy butts that came before them! I’ve spilled more to my pets than anyone else, really.
Dogs are great, they’re available 24/7 with full body snuggles and a face full of kisses. Cats are another story — even my sweet babies. For us to get some lovin’, we have to pat THEM. They’re narcissistic little purr factories. We are but only their minions.
A smile says so much without saying anything.
It’s the most important item in your wardrobe. Never leave home without it. Now remember to put it on when you see someone. It bounces right back at you! Amazing!
And don’t forget to toss that smile back to the pitcher. Believe me, you’ll feel better for it. Maybe cover it with “Hello” and put a “How ya doin’?” on top.
I, myself, am a hugger.
I love to hug people. It’s so much more personal than a wave or a handshake. Hugs are actually healthy for you. They lower your blood pressure and boost your endorphins. Natural medicine.
When you give a hug, you get a hug. It’s the perfect example of “what goes around comes around”. It’s a great last minute gift … just saying.
I like to give a good squeege (nope, that’s not a misspelling) to my grandbabies. It feels so good — warm and yummy. I just want to eat ’em up.
Isn’t that what all Grandma’s are supposed to say? Well, it’s the truth. Grandchildren smell like flowers, sugar cookies and little dash of that special spice called “I hope you have one just like you”.
Oh wait … Do you mean my mom was the only one who had that in her spice cabinet? Hmmm …
To summarize …
Friendship works like a hug; arms outstretched, always ready to pull you in. You’re there for each other. It’s not 50/50. It’s 100/100 because it fills you both up.
Don’t judge a book by it’s cover. We all have our own stories to tell. If we listen to each other, we can learn so much. Just be careful what you repeat. You don’t want to cause any drama. Don’t be the hand that holds the ladle. In other words — don’t stir the pot.
One of the things that I’ve learned is that I’m not alone in this world. There are people that have gone through the same things as me and survived. Good to know. We all need to remind ourselves of this now and then (me included).
As they say:
“To have a friend, you have to be a friend.” This is so true.
“Do unto others as you would have them do unto you.” Amen.
“Judge not, lest you be judged.” Absolutely.
And above all, “Be nice.” Says it all.
So, try smiling the next time you meet someone and show them that you’re a stranger friend.
I’m proud to call myself one.
Okay, I’m stepping down off my soapbox for now.
So, here’s a smile and a squeege. Thanks so much for taking some time out to get to know me a little.
I really appreciate you! And, I mean that, too.
P.S. Have you been a friend to yourself today?
