I recently began a series to highlight one of the most amazing groups of people I know and thank them for the impact they’ve had on my life from 2015 to now. If you missed last week’s launch, you can read #1 here. I’ll begin today’s post how the last one ended: Starting with Ashley.

As a refresher, Ashley was the first to invite me into her Neighborhood group. Mine was disbanding and I was looking for a replacement. We hadn’t known each other long, but we were developing what would become a lasting friendship. Ashley, and her husband Jonny asked if I wanted to tag along with them one evening after I’d brought Ashley a meal. Even though I was still in sweaty gym clothes, I decided why not.

The living room was clean, warm, and inviting. Multiple people were gathered by the entry way, in the kitchen, and already seated in various spots around the large brown sofa. The group was larger than I had anticipated; there were probably close to 20 people there. While it can be intimidating walking into a large group of people you’ve never met, each and every one of these individuals went out of their way to make me feel welcome and comfortable.

Throughout the first gathering, I couldn’t help but think about Ashley. She had been right, after all: this group is exactly what my heart had been missing, and I was so grateful for her invitation to join. Ashley is one of those people that you either know and love and or wish you knew and loved. Her zest for life is contagious, and her ability to share hard truths is unparalleled. She has a no-nonsense view of the world and an amazing head on her shoulders. Her kindness permeates her friendships and she brings a joy with her wherever she goes. From now until forever, Ashley may be the only one who could convince me to try more barre classes, even if it’s not my thing. I truly can’t imagine two things: 1. Trying barre for anyone else and 2. Doing life without Ashley in it.

In fact, Ashley is so pivotal of a friend, she completely organized and ran my wedding ceremony and reception and also played a role in my bridal shower and Arizona baby shower with our firstborn daughter. Now THAT is a good friend.

Ashley, I am so proud to know you and love you. You are a transformational friend, and have made me a better woman because of your love. I am so thankful to you and Jonny for the kind of friendship I feel honored to have from you. You two truly are a power couple, and Jordan and I love y’all so much!