I met Paula in 1989. My husband Steve and I moved to Springfield in July of that year. Less than 3 weeks after our move from Litttle Rock my mother died unexpectedly. Thank God I found Paula when I sought counseling. We “clicked “ immediately and became very close friends. We always shared a good laugh when we talked about my first session with her. She thought I was so “put together “ when actually I had sweat running down my back I also had my fee (in cash) all wet and clammy in my hand… Learning about yourself can be tough. When Paula told me I was very competitive I was shocked. I asked her if anyone else could tell and after giggling she said “Honey, everyone can tell!” What a loving and compassionate person she was…. Vacationing twice with her in Mexico was a treat - lots of laughter, great food and sunshine. I’ll be forever grateful that she was my friend. When I desperately needed “mothering “ she stepped into my life. I’ll miss her forever and my heart is breaking, but I know this pain is worth enduring because of all the love and laughter we shared for 35 years.
