I have been really blessed in my life with really interesting friends. When describing my most unique and enjoyable friends (and my children), I will usually say, he/she is quirky in the most delightful way.
Such is the case with my dear friend, 
Joan Smith
Joan SmithI took this photo of Joan this weekend in San Clemente. I think she would like being lit with this golden light. She deserves a Vermeer approach to her portrait.
I first met Joan when she moved in across the street on Connor Ridge Cove a few years ago but I feel like I have known her for years. We become good friends via our love for books, music and beautiful things. She is generous beyond belief. And if you are looking for a good book, you will leave her home with three or four.
There is a beautiful straightforwardness to Joan. She doesn't waste her time on things she does not enjoy or value. She artfully evades the guilt plague which afflicts most Mormon women. But she knows where her talents lie, and she gives freely without keeping tally.
When you need a place to lay down you burdens, you can go to Joan. She will listen without judgement. She has an uncanny way of making difficult times seem trivial while validating your feelings.
A couple of years ago, Joan decided that I was her seventh daughter. An honor I do not take lightly. My family and I have been included in many a family dinner at the Smith's. There are always interesting conversations as her husband and children weave in and out. You see, she has raised independent thinkers and the conversation is always about more about ideas than people. Although, we are not above discussing a certain church leader who parks his vehicle diagonally across multiple spaces at the church.
She is timeless and is one of the few that can pull off wearing kaftans without looking like a throw back from Three's Company.
She will likely never read this tribute but the goodwill I feel towards this great woman will find its way to her heart..
Enough for now...love to all.
