1973: Dear Roberta Franzheim

“You Never Forget Your Childhood Best Friend”

Dear Roberta,

I’m just so sorry, so sad that I lost track of you.  I literally don’t remember how we actually spent our time. I know it included ill-conceived baking projects, hours in our rooms, yo-yos, roller skates, ice skates… just classic make your own fun and laughter until you wet your pants. 

When our lives went in separate ways in 9th grade I never imagined I literally would never have the chance to tell you just how much your companionship meant to me.  A smart, spirited Texan who could run like the wind, you were better than me at most things, but always by my side in all things.  

Today, while there is much to fear about the digital age and the innocence of those precious years, I’m glad my kids will likely always know how to reconnect with and thank the Roberta Franzheim’s in their lives.

So so much love,

Ann Simonds

Aka Annie Hoagland

aka Annie Hoagland