An Ode to Victoria

In the 1980s, I worked across the hall from Analyn, who quickly became one of my best friends. One morning, she came in with a new magazine. We were enthralled with the cover, pictures, stories, and perfectly lovely name: Victoria. It was a respite in our busy lives. Whenever we would arrive home, having received the next issue in the mail, we would call each other and read it together over the phone! Through the years, we have continued enjoying and appreciating this wonderful work of art and still talk about each issue as it comes. It’s a treasured part of our friendship, which is such a blessing to me.

ANN FOLKES BULLOCK

Seminary, Mississippi

  appreciation for everyday life. Inspired by its pages, I have begun to notice daily blessings that come in many forms: the rising sun illuminating the sky, the first sip of morning coffee, the scent of lavender in a warm