A True Friend, a Priceless Treasure

Make new friends, but keep the old ones. A motto I attest to. I was blessed with so many wonderful childhood friends that I am so proud to still call my friends today. We have endured life's hardships and successes together, and our bond is invaluable.

Marisa, in particular, has had one of the strongest and most positive impacts on my life. I vividly remember our first encounter. She arrived at Roosevelt School in first grade with a head full of bangs and the biggest and brightest smile I had ever seen. I wondered who that cheery and jovial new girl on the playground was? I just had to be her friend. Luckily, we were in the same class and I instantly made this become a reality. Marisa was funny, adorable, sweet, warm, and most of all, inviting. The apple certainly didn't fall far from the tree. Her parents possessed these same attributes and I began frequenting her house often. When you entered their welcoming doors, the Cicchino's made you feel at home. Marisa and I would spend hours composing dances and plays, all the while laughing and being giddy like all school girls do. Marisa's laugh was infectious and once it started there was no turning back. It was impossible to be anything but happy in her presence.

Swim parties at her house, her crazy cat Turbo chasing us all over the neighborhood, and her infamous neighbors across the street (AKA: the old couple who smelled like pee), are some of our greatest memories. There is, however, one that takes the cake. Junior high was the year of serial dating and going to the Lincoln Cinema. Marisa and I both had our "boyfriends" but decided we wanted to swap. We met in the cinema bathroom where we huddled into a stall, only to be verbally accosted by a wacky girl climbing over the bathroom stall. Once that ordeal came to end, operation "swap boyfriends" was underway. We decided we would just simply switch seats and hope our new guys wouldn't protest! Surprisingly, our simple plan went unhitched. Oh to be 13 and stupid again!

More cherished memories with Marisa were made over the years. Even as we matured, Marisa remained authentic. She was that same loyal, enthusiastic, beautiful, and very sweet girl I met on the Roosevelt playground. During college we may have lost touch, but as soon as we reunited, we had the innate ability to pick up right where we left off. I never felt a disconnect from her. My time spent with Marisa was just easy and our relationship seamless.

Marisa was there to see me walk down the aisle and also at my house after the births of Gianna and Mia. These milestones wouldn't have been the same without her by my side. As all of our families have continued to grow, it has been a joy to be present and share in these beautiful moments. Watching our children play and laugh the way we once did, is an indescribable and remarkable feeling.

I think our bond has permanently been sealed over the past few years. Marisa and I both have been avid lovers of theater and the arts. I danced my whole life and wanted nothing more than to be on Broadway. Marisa was blessed with a beautiful voice but lacked the confidence and courage to hone her craft. This commonality always bonded us. For years, I pleaded with her to explore the world of theater and let others witness her talents. It wasn't until most recently, however, that she finally gave in to our pleas. Marisa, took a leap and mustered up the courage to start auditioning for community theater. Directors were in awe of her natural abilities and so her theater journey began. I was in awe of her courage and determination. Being a mother, a wife, and having a full time job didn't stand in the way of her aspirations. She is an inspiration to moms, but most importantly to her kids. What a lesson she has taught them. Age, circumstances, and life shouldn't get in the way of ultimate happiness. I haven't missed a show yet. She is such a shining star.

Marisa's journey opened my eyes. Just as I had pushed and encouraged her to pursue her own dreams, she did the same for me. She constantly complimented my fashion and styling abilities and believed I could make something out of it. I can honestly say, without Marisa, I don't know if Stay at Home Stylist would have ever evolved. Witnessing her achievements made me want strive for the same success.

Now at the ripe old age of 36, we are both living out our dreams. Just as I have been front and center at her shows, she is enthusiastic and heavily involved in my styling business. She comments and partakes in all my posts and constantly checks in to see how my business is doing.

I thought it would be fun to spotlight Marisa and her kids, as a way of thanking her for her unwavering and undying support and friendship all these years. She gave me free reign to style her and her beautiful kids, Gavin and Alexa, any way I wanted. I was flattered that she trusted me enough to take on this task. It was so much fun and super easy. Luckily my wonderful friend and photographer, Lisa, agreed to take the pictures of this adorable family.

Thank you Marisa for endlessly brightening up my life and bringing such joy and happiness to my world and everyone else around you. There are some people in life that make you laugh a little louder, smile a little bigger, and live just a little bit better. Marisa, that person is you.

"Remember that the most valuable antiques are dear old friends."- H. Jackson Brown, Jr.

Marisa's smile exudes happiness and pure joy. Everyone who has the pleasure of getting to know her instantly is smitten.

Blue hair don't care. Her hair screams fearless and fun. She's not afraid to take risks and embrace life! A true kid at heart.

This is your time to shine "Mommy." I love how her children proudly stand behind her basking in her achievements.

Dress

Bracelet

Earrings Use code: stayathomestylist for 15% off

Shirt

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Romper

Boots

These two are spitting images of their mommy. They are well adjusted, gorgeous, smart, and very happy little people. I just adore their personalities.

The most spectacular little trio on the block! I bet you are all happier after looking at these 3 faces. I know I am!

"In the end, you always go back to the people that were there in the beginning. "

Now that you have gotten a chance to meet my gorgeous friend, it's time to listen to the talented voice that for many years remained solely for showers, close friends and occasional karaoke. Enjoy!!!!

Listen to Marisa sing!!