Day 17: Renee Long

Things that describe Renee:

-Great friend
-Intelligent
-Quirky
-Kind-hearted
-Artistic
-Creative
-Excellent writer
-Funny
-Slightly Clumsy
-Deep Souled
-Dramatic
-Supportive
-Reliable
-Beautiful
-A mean violinist

Renee and I also met as freshman theatre majors. We also lived just down the hall from each other in our freshman dorm. I loved getting to know Renee throughout college. I watched her grow and change into a remarkable woman.

Renee is a great friend. She was there for me when tragedy struck my family. I remember many days when she would sit next to me, stroking my back while I sobbed into a pillow. She was always so thoughtful to ask me how I was doing. One of my favorite memories with her was when we were doing a scene together in Acting 1 and we went to Wal-mart to improv our mother-daughter roles. It was around Christmas time and Renee yelled in her character voice "look ma! It's Sainty Claus!". I immediately broke character and spewed out laughter. I still think of that every Christmas. Cracks me up every time!

Renee also hosted an amazing lingerie shower for me at her family's beach condo. That was probably my favorite memory from college. Almost all of my closest girlfriends were in attendance (minus a few who lived too far away) and we had a BLAST! We had mexican food for dinner, margaritas, cake and sweets for dessert, played lots of fun games, opened presents, laid out by the pool and the beach all day, stayed up way too late, slept 3-4 girls to a bed (slumber party style), slept in, ate a delightful breakfast with mimosas, went to the pool again, then watched a movie. It was the most fun, most relaxing, mini-vacation/shower I have ever had. I am so grateful to Renee for hosting the party. What wonderful memories.

Renee is a gifted violinist. She played in our wedding and did a terrific job. It meant so much to me to have her talent displayed in our ceremony. When we lived together I used to beg her to play the violin for me. I loved listening to her practice!

Renee,

You are a beautiful friend to me. Our relationship is so wonderful. I miss living with you or even close to you for that matter. You are such a kind person and I value you! I have loved watching your faith grow over the past years. The day you were baptized was an incredible day and I was so honored to be there to share it with you. I love our fun memories and even the sad ones we have experienced together. It is a blessing to be your friend. Hope to see you and catch up with you soon!

Love,

Mary Beth