Recently, I embarked on a business venture with a dear friend, primarily to provide her with financial support. Having retired early after a 15-year career in house renovation, I was ready for a new challenge. My friend, a teacher and single mother of three girls, faces the significant challenge of making ends meet on a teacher's salary.

I hold a degree in visual arts, while my friend has one in education. Our paths crossed when my family returned to Oklahoma and we found our church community. It was there that our friendship began.

During our teenage years, we participated in many ski trips organized by our church's youth group. Now, years later, we continue to enjoy ski trips, accompanied by young children and old friends. We approach life with a sense of levity, mindful of its brevity and the importance of cherishing every moment.