AWKWARD WIDOW NEW FRIENDS

syc·o·phant

ˈsikəfənt,-ˌfant/

noun

1. a person who acts obsequiously toward someone important in order to gain advantage.

   synonyms:

   yes-man, bootlicker, brown-noser, toady,lickspittle, flatterer, flunky, lackey, spaniel,doormat, stooge, cringer, suck, suck-up

In just a few short months I have made a new friend here at the condos.  Mary Beth just happens to be our HOA Board Chair.  In the past we have agreed on so many topics with how the Board was working.  Not FOR the people.  But for themselves.  Interesting how such a tiny bit of power changes people for the worse.  Just like money.  When I would be outraged about stupid expenses that were not for the majority, or when the previous Prez abused the nepotism factor, and when she would spend money on things that were not budgeted for ... I would email people who would email people and that's how we first met.

Part of me feels bad about forming such a fast friendship.  We are about the same age (well, okay, I'm six months older).  She's funny, irreverent, thinking and upbeat.  The perfect combination.  She's erudite yet down to earth.  Has great self esteem but but knows exactly who she is and what she wants.

Best of all, she has invited me out for a few happy hours and convinced me to head up a committee that was out of control.  She also talked me into heading up the Newsletter which I really enjoy.

Tonight, after swim aerobics, I invited her over for "pink drinks" (her term) and a light supper.  Time flew and the Prosecco bottle emptied way too early.   I just don't want people to think I'm a sycophant!