My Miami Adventures with Maureen

Last weekend, I went to Miami with some friends for a little getaway. The trip was inspired by my childhood best friend, Kelly's mom, Maureen. Maureen is a 77-year-old, elegant, graceful, raw, and hilarious woman. I love her deeply and am incredibly grateful for her mark on my life. Her wit, humor, and charm draw you in, and most are captivated by the stories of her life, which she openly shares.

Maureen has been to other parts of Florida before but has always wanted to see Miami. However, since her husband Tom's passing ten years ago, she hasn't wanted to travel much. It was something they often did together, and she lost her desire to after he died. So when she asked her daughter, Kelly, if we would take her, we booked the trip before she could change her mind.

There were 7 of us, and we all arrived at different times. Maureen and I flew down together. I was looking forward to having her all to myself for the day. But, once together, we ate, drank (not Maureen), and laughed. I mean, we belly laughed the entire time! Maureen danced on a rooftop bar, charmed the pants off of the man at the concierge desk, took pictures with strangers in elevators and a bachelorette party full of women wearing colored wigs. She hugged the hotel manager, who shared that she had just lost her mom and swore Maureen looked just like her. The people of Miami were just as taken by Maureen as those of us who know and love her most of our lives. Who could blame them? She is full of life and has an uncanny ability to provide a lens on things that can only provoke spontaneous bursts of laughter!!! I'm sure most who know her  would agree.

"You are never too old to set a new goal or dream a new dream" ~ C.S. Lewis

When I got home and reflected on my weekend, Maureen was protagonist in my story of joy and happiness. Don't get me wrong; my friends are my family. I love spending time with them, but Maureen is a special lady. She owns her authenticity in a way that I admire. She exudes grace while never betraying her audacious side. The craziest thing is that she doesn't hide anything, and the more you know her, the more you love and respect her. I've known her for over 42 years now, and she has taught me many a lesson along the way. But this weekend, she taught me by showing me that you're never too old to have fun, dream another dream, do something crazy or change the direction of your life. But what I admire most about Maureen is how she finds joy and provokes laughter in every situation....no matter what's going on in her life. Honestly, after spending this time with her, I want to be just like her when I grow up!

Thanks Maureen...for leading by example!!!

And p.s.: Be Bold - Be Audacious - Be You!