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Hello, gals!
Welcome back to Chateau Lavigne! I hope the new owners have remained loyal to the wines and haven’t remodeled because that winery was magical. Like being in a French chateau without the jet lag.
It felt like our first trip as “real” adults with real jobs. What were we, twenty-three? God, we were so sure of ourselves back then.
Remember the night we stayed up in the Chateau library with that huge roaring fire?
We went through two bottles of wine and thought we knew everything, solving all the world’s problems, plus some of our own.
I remember it was Anna who suggested that Holly pitch the mentorship program to the principal of the school.
That was the program that got Holly the promotion and put that weasel Phil where he belonged.
The nerve of the guy, thinking he was better than our Holly!
And Holly, you had the vision of Anna running her own travel biz. Look what a success our girl is now!
I owe you both for helping me see the detour I needed to a career that brought me fulfillment.
Without you, I never would have become a therapist. I would have stayed locked in my own grief and guilt.
It was through our friendship, through sharing our experiences that I was able to find the gift of helping others.
I resented my parents for saying we would handle the aftermath of my recovery “as a family.” They couldn’t deal with it themselves, which left me alone with my feelings. I was drowning. You were my lifeline.
It’s my wish that you’ll have each other’s backs again. Obviously! It’s why I sent you on this trip. Bear with me. I know this isn’t easy, just being thrown together again after all these years and the trickle of secrets I’m revealing. Trust me, though. All will be revealed in good time.
So, about my last letter. I imagine you’re still reeling from that bombshell, and I’m sorry for keeping it from you.
I really am. I promise to explain why later.
But for now, know that Chateau Lavigne is where I felt like there was nothing that could wedge us apart.
You were my ride-or-dies. I’m hoping the winery will once again work its magic.
It’s the perfect place to start healing and to rekindle your friendship.
Anna has the letter that explains how you’ll disperse my ashes on this trip. Read it on the tour I booked. It’s the last one of the day, so no dilly-dallying. After the tour, order a nice bottle of Pinot Noir (my favorite!) and toast being alive and together.
I love you both more than you could ever know. You’ll always be my BFFs. Please don’t forget me.
xo,
Z.