28/365 - Work hard play hard

In the Summers of 2012 and 2013 we went to Turkey with a dear friend, she was also my colleague at Harrods. 

The ideal partner in crime, always up to mischief. We even gatecrashed a wedding in Turkey and ended up dancing there for hours, eating delicious food and drinking Rum and Coke (of course). 

We always had something to chat about and even if she was twice my age she never talked down to me. She had this way of pulling you close, talk to you in a low, soft voice and make you feel like she was sharing the most valuable of secrets and you were a very special person. 

I do not mean to reminisce sad things, even if she is not with us anymore. Medelene was the embodiment of la joie de vivre.

I would be fooling myself and not fully give into the idea of explaining my values, if I do not talk about those that inspired them just because they are not here anymore. As long as I can remember their voices, they are still with me.

When I get to my 50’s I want to be as full of life and entertaining as she was. The whole package - the red lipstick, the colourful dresses, the wide smile, the warmth of her heart, the courage and the confidence.

Last but not least she was an incredible storyteller! The story of how her parents met, back in Seychelles where she was from, was my favourite. I must have made her repeat it at least three times.

I have never seen someone so results driven as her. She took her job seriously, at one point she was leading detached on praises and recommendations throughout the whole of the store.

She did not put up with nonsense, she knew her rights and she was undeterred when needed. Although a very kind soul, you did not want to cross her, she would put you in your place in three words!

In 2013, the group got bigger and we all promised we will go to Seychelles together. It never happened, but it will and we will be talking about you, my friend!

I am not afraid of talking of those that are gone and it is not to evoke any sympathy. It is what it is, they are gone, but they are still a part of us!

Feel your feelings! Breathe in, breathe out and be grateful to have had the privilege!

You got this!