It's Women's History Month ~ the women in my life! Part 1

It's Women's History Month - so I will highlight throughout the month women that have influenced my life. Let's start with this woman - my Mother - Janine Harding! She's outspoken, funny and independent and at 81 she is traveling the world and enjoying the blessed life she has! 

Rock on, Mom! <3

Teachers' influence stays with you for life and Deborah Canterbury believed in me and my talents when I was a young, budding thespian. She treated me like an adult in high school. She showed us that even in the panhandle of TX there is art and she fought for us. Under her leadership in our HS Drama Dept.,  we managed to do many cool theatre events - assemblies, plays, festivals and competitions. She continues to inspire me to this day!!!  

My Aunt Dott was a woman that knew how to celebrate! She could knit, crochet, bake awesome bday cakes, play cool games, laugh and give you a piece of her mind while she was doing it all. Her fav holiday was Christmas - she was my fav Auntie. I miss her terribly. 

She's my sister from another mister, Virginia. She took me under her wing and gave me guidance. Even when times were really rough for me, she knew what to say to keep me going. She supported me in many ways - she taught me about endurance, pragmatism, class and to believe in something more. 

This lady - Linda McCall - is someone that is one of my closest friends today. She's a confidante and a great conversationalist.  She's dynamic and gracious. A true friend that I can count on.

I know we were connected in another life - she's my soul sister. We bonded 20 yrs. ago - my life has been better knowing her. Beauty, tenacity and strength that's Holly. 

My birthday sister (both Nov. 3rd) and yoga kumu(teacher) that has been a source of peace and inspiration in my life since arriving on Kauai.  Patricia, you are the light that guides me. Namaste! 

Even though we've parted ways, I would be remiss if I didn't mention Linda Easton. 20 + yrs. we've known each other. Resourcefulness, diplomacy and craziness - that's what she brought to me in this life. We had a good run. I'll always love her. 

You know it's a good day when an ex-Black Panther sidles up to ya and says "I've never had a cracker gf before." We had lots of laughs and we both loved the tambourine. For years, in Berkeley, CA - we played w the drummers on Sproul Plaza. Fierce and funny - she still is! Love you Joyce Taylor!

These ladies (and men, too) but mostly ladies - are the Gold Dust Dreamers (not all pictured here) we've been on the internet oozing out our love for La Nicks since 1998!!! We're bad, we're nationwide! We've met up, stayed at each others homes, seen each other through good times and hard times but what brings us together - is the music of Stevie Nicks. <3 

I don't have many college friends that I stay in touch with but Shawnie is true blue and really a smart, no bullshit kinda girl. A black belt in karate and just an all out kick ass chick. Another 20+ yr. friendship that continues to grow as we age!!! She's more like family, really. Big love to ya, gf! 

I think Beverly is an angel. She's the sweetest person I've ever known. She's saved me more than once in my life. I am eternally grateful. Luckily, she has come to visit me more times than anyone since I've moved to Kauai. It's good to be able to give back to her - I'm blessed! 

LOL, Lynn Johnston, Caren Von Bose and Shelley Chenot - although none of them knew each other they gathered in Dallas to see me back in 2001. Lynn & I went to HS, Caren &  I went to UNT and Shelley & I knew each other via Holly and formed our own friendship. This was one crazy night - I mean C.R.A.Z.Y!!! I love these women - they know how to cut loose!!! We are all still friends to this day! 20-30 yrs. of friendship here! 

Twisted and fun - also one of the most reliable and sweet people I know and she's not a bad actress either! Mad love for you Shauna "Spike" Griffin! 

One of the wisest women in the my life. Strong, vivacious and a hellva an artist! She's a beautiful hula dancer too! We can just cut thru the BS and just speak our minds, that's Schar! 

My long time office mate and co-worker that has more class and fashion sense than anyone I know!!! She taught me tons about courage, being yourself and lots of humor. Bianka you are an original my dear! 

Nothing like your HS besties! The intellectually stimulating and enchanting Karen and the fun loving talented Josie - saw them in 2012 for our 30th HS reunion. 30+ yrs. of friendship here!!!

Always a smile on her face and hospitable, Laurel Whyte,  she's the essence of grace and empathy. She lights up the room you're in! 

Although we lead very different lives, she's my sister and she raised 3 gorgeous, smart and madly skilled kids.  Jet setter, active in her community and part of my gene pool!! Love ya, Claudine! 

My very first friend and long time mentor here on Kauai, Linda Pascatore. Activist, Speech Therapist, Homesteader and Writer - she embodies Mother Gaia for me. A touchstone when I need some grounding! Big love to you, Linda P.! 

We met in 2009 during Michele Rundgren's show that we were in -  "What Was I Thinking: Bad Boyfriend's Stories"  and voila, we instantly clicked!!! Photographer, Activist and all round "chillax" individual - I've spent many a staycation at her home on the lovely No. Shore. Big love to you, Sara Wall!