The Beautiful Betty with her dear Godson, Jeff Bridges......I've been thinking a lot about dear Betty these last several days. I've been thinking about that open loving smile that you see above....I've been thinking about how she saved my life back in 1946, before I actually knew her 'in person'---when I saw her on Broadway in "CALL ME MISTER", and knew that I was watching someone who was incredibly special--that show made her a "star" and MGM saw what we all saw on Broadway, and scooped her up .....
I've been thinking about the almost 50 years of friendship, and the incredible amount of time I spent with her over all these almost 50 years---working together and sharing good times, as well as bad....precious, precious memories, all......
I've been thinking about how she is now with Larry, once again. Here they are below, on their Wedding Day back in the 1946......
And how happy they must be now, to be back together again, finally---He died in 1975----after they're 31 years of marriage.....They were a 'True Love' pair...the really were.......
I've been thinking about Betty's dear sons---those incredibly devoted "boys"----they will always be 'the boys', though both are such incredibly stellar men.....
And I've been thinking about Betty's special daughters-in-law---Karen and Katy.....
And her cherished and special Granddaughter, Maddy---who has a lot of her Grandmother in her...
And I've been thinking about how bereft they all are right now because Betty is gone......And I've been thinking about a song I wrote about 47 years ago, called "GONE", and it was about a love that was lost, through death: ".....Gone....is that smile that awakened me, Gone is he....Gone from my side and he's gone from my sight, and no more is he.....".....
Betty could have been singing this song in 1975 when dear dear Larry died......I've been thinking about how very many lives this incredible woman has touched---How important she was to so very many people....I've been thinking about her ability to give unconditional love. Unconditional Love....Wow! The 'generosity of spirit' that was just who she always was......
I've been thinking about how much I miss her and how I truly cannot bear the fact that I can no longer call her on the phone---I can no longer hear her voice, that voice that was disappearing over these many months, though I could still hear her---We All Could Still Hear Her, even when she was only able to whisper......
I've been thinking about what a loss her death is to the world....Betty brightened up the world---wherever she was and whoever she was with---Everyone was better off for her being right there with each of us and all of us. Ask anyone, and they will all say the same thing. Believe me, we were all better for having known her----for having had her in our lives.....We are better people because of her. She truly made us all better people by just being who she was.....! What a gift!
To have a friend like this---for all of these years----How lucky was I? How blessed was I? That she continued to "save my life" over these fantastically rich wonderful almost 50 years.....It breaks my heart, yet, I am so grateful for this dear sweet friendship.....There are no words....
More to Come..........
- had this to say:
Yes, you are incredibly blessed to have such a special and enduring friendship with such a wonderful woman as Betty but don't forget that she was equally blessed to have a long-lasting friendship with YOU and, if every I was taught was true, you both will be together again -- but not for a while. I'm selfish enough to want to keep you here a good while longer, my dear friend.
- Friday, February 18, 2011 at 12:21:00 AM PST
- had this to say:
I'm glad you are writing about Betty..when we have such a loss we have to let out our thoughts..it's a good thing Naomi. (And I needed a good cry..)
not many can say they've had friends for 50 yrs! It shows that you are incredible too or Betty never would have been your lifelong friend... I can't say enough how sorry I am for your loss.. it is always so very hard on those left behind..hugs to you naomi- Friday, February 18, 2011 at 3:38:00 AM PST
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had this to say:
Wonderful memories. You're fortunate to have all the photos, which are so good for a smile when you need it. My continued thoughts for her family and friends, the number of which demonstrate a life truly well lived.
- Friday, February 18, 2011 at 5:54:00 AM PST
- had this to say:
Your wonderful tribute to a much loved friend moved me beyond words.
What a precious gift you shared for all those years. I think part of Betty will always be with you and I believe that as long as a departed person is loved - they still live on.
I hope the happy memories will see you and her family and friends through these very sad days.- Friday, February 18, 2011 at 6:55:00 AM PST
- had this to say:
I agree with the first comment on this blog (from Kay), you and your dear friend Betty have shared a wonderful friendship through many years. Her face is so familiar to me through your photos of your famous lunch parties.... what a lovely lady. Your heart must be breaking. My thoughts are with you, Naomi.
- Friday, February 18, 2011 at 7:48:00 AM PST
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had this to say:
She will always live on in your heart! The world is better because of her ...who she touched, places she's been...I believe her spirit is all around us. You can still talk to her. I know she will be so missed...and never forgotten.
xo, Audrey- Friday, February 18, 2011 at 8:20:00 AM PST
- had this to say:
That's the best any of us could hope to have said about us after our passing. What a beautiful tribute. Don't let the pain of your loss, overshadow the beauty of her spirit and your 50 year friendship.
- Friday, February 18, 2011 at 11:11:00 AM PST
- had this to say:
Great photos, Naomi. I find myself continually scrolling back in your blog to see Betty at your various Ladies Who Lunch events. I'm so glad you documented those as you did. What a loss for everyone.
We're just back from Chicago and will call. Hope to see you very soon!- Friday, February 18, 2011 at 1:56:00 PM PST
- had this to say:
I am grateful that you shared her with us. Such friends are rare.
- Friday, February 18, 2011 at 7:04:00 PM PST
- had this to say:
Oh, Naomi. I am so very sorry. I'm just now catching up on everything over here. I saw your previous post and just... stopped. Words fail me.
She truly was a special friend to you and played a huge part in everyone's life who knew her, who loved her. She was (and will continue to be) well loved. She knew she was well loved... oh dear.
I'm so sorry. :(- Friday, February 18, 2011 at 8:44:00 PM PST
- had this to say:
What a lovely photo tribute. You know that I am an awards show lover like you and I am always a little teary when they do the memorials. At the Oscars this year I will probably burst into tears when they show your dear friend, because through your blog, I came to love her too.
- Saturday, February 19, 2011 at 12:22:00 AM PST
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had this to say:
A life to be proud of.
- Saturday, February 19, 2011 at 3:46:00 AM PST
- had this to say:
Oh sweet friend! I am so, so sorry to hear of your loss! This was a beautiful tribute and photo essay (as always). Your special friendship and affection shines through. Sending you love and comfort!
- Saturday, February 19, 2011 at 4:34:00 AM PST
- had this to say:
Beautiful and precious memories, Naomi! To have almost 50 years of frienship is a great privilege.
What a wonderful tribute to Betty and what a great pictures too.
I hope you have a peaceful weekend.- Saturday, February 19, 2011 at 6:03:00 AM PST
- had this to say:
Blessings to you, dear Naomi. My heart goes out to you. The gift of love and friendship lasts forever.
- Saturday, February 19, 2011 at 7:09:00 AM PST
- had this to say:
My mother in law's 80th birthday is tomorrow. Your tribute to your friend makes it more precious.
Every day is God's gift. Our job is to appreciate it. Share it.
Blessings-- Saturday, February 19, 2011 at 10:08:00 AM PST
- had this to say:
You and Betty shared so many great memories over the years. That is a treasure and a great gift.
I am really sorry for your loss and I hope you will treasure all the beautiful memories you have with her.- Saturday, February 19, 2011 at 11:27:00 AM PST
- had this to say:
This is a beautiful tribute, and must have been very painful to write, although the joy of your friendship shows through. We've all lost a very special person.
Nancy in Iowa- Saturday, February 19, 2011 at 1:18:00 PM PST
- had this to say:
Kay really said it beautifully.
You wrote such a lovely tribute to your life long friend. I really love that first picture of you two.
I know how you must miss her so but you must also be grateful to have had her in your life for so many years. I am sure she was just as grateful for having you in hers.- Saturday, February 19, 2011 at 4:33:00 PM PST
- had this to say:
Naomi I didnt know Betty like you did but from the posts you have made of her and your ladies who lunch posts.. she is very special and was very special to everyone. Even to those of us who live so far away.. Writing about her will help you grieve by sharing your memories with others that have grown to know her.
Hugs my friend and I hope this helps.. I maybe only 34 years old but I have lost many people that meant loads to me and I still grieve them every day. Esp around Holiday times. So hopefully you will get more great memories from writing this down and sharing your wonderful friend.- Saturday, February 19, 2011 at 4:34:00 PM PST
- had this to say:
The photos say it all. She really was a beautiful woman and you both were lucky to have such an enduring friendship. It is nice to have the faith that she is now with her husband and someday you will rejoin them along with the others you love.
- Saturday, February 19, 2011 at 4:34:00 PM PST
- had this to say:
I've been thinking of you a lot and wondering how you were doing. Wonderful photos and tribute to dear Betty. How wonderful that you and she were such dear friends and for so long. Memories to cherish always. xxoxx
- Saturday, February 19, 2011 at 5:59:00 PM PST
- had this to say:
Naomi, I hope they have the internet in Heaven, because Betty needs to read this. I love what Kay D said, so go read that again.
I love the photos of you two together.- Sunday, February 20, 2011 at 5:43:00 AM PST
- had this to say:
Oh Naomi you made me wanna cry and you make me realize the importance of friendship and to treasure everyone that crosses our path.
You are in my thoughts Naomi and i knew just how much you have missed Betty and I hope you'll be strong for everyone that loves you and remember, she is never gone...she is right there in your heart always.
Love you Naomi......take care please.- Sunday, February 20, 2011 at 7:48:00 AM PST
- had this to say:
Your words choke me up, Naomi. I'm glad you have such good memories and pictures to keep. What a dazzler she was.
- Sunday, February 20, 2011 at 9:54:00 AM PST
- had this to say:
I actually started to cry. Your friend Betty sounds like she was an angel..a friend, a guardian, a confidante, a sister. Our world is a little colder and our spirit a little sadder with her. But you know what, you were her friend and were lucky to have her touch your heart... I know our heavenly father will keep her close..sincerest sympathies..zman sends with tissue in hand.
- Sunday, February 20, 2011 at 10:41:00 AM PST
- had this to say:
Lovely remembrances of the love, friendship and companionable times with a dear friend. So much in her life to celebrate.
- Monday, February 21, 2011 at 2:59:00 AM PST
- had this to say:
She will always be remembered...Big hugs to you, dear.
- Monday, February 21, 2011 at 7:59:00 AM PST
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had this to say:
When I read about Betty I thought of your Ladies Who Lunch postings. You shared so many memories together. My heart goes out to you Naomi for your loss of your wonderful friend.
Laura- Monday, February 21, 2011 at 9:38:00 AM PST
- had this to say:
an amazing friendship!!!!!! thank you for stopping by the old blog that I barely keep up anymore. I turned on the TV tonight and saw Betty and had to stop by again to see how you are feeling ! :) I will keep my eye out for anything memorabilia! :)
- Monday, February 21, 2011 at 6:35:00 PM PST
- had this to say:
Naomi, I just checked in and saw your post about Betty. I am so sorry. Your words are beautiful about her and your friendship. I loved seeing all those pictures of her over the years. I know she will be missed so much by you and all the family and friends and your blog followers will sure miss seeing her at your get-togethers. Hugs to you.
- Monday, February 21, 2011 at 9:28:00 PM PST
- had this to say:
It is true - you were blessed to have Betty in your life. May she now rest in peace with her beloved husband.
- Tuesday, February 22, 2011 at 1:39:00 AM PST
- had this to say:
Naomi, I don't know if you take Time magazine, but there is a very nice tribute to Betty in this weeks Mileston's section- page 20. Tought you may want to save all of the wonderful tributes to this very special friend of yours. Just remember the good times and wonderful memories and she will continue to live in all of the hearts that loved her. I hope every passing day becomes easier with time to help ease your heart. I he5rd a sayig not long ago- there is no death- just changing of worlds. Old Indian saying.
- Tuesday, February 22, 2011 at 7:35:00 PM PST
- had this to say:
I know you're still dealing with your loss, but I miss you and thought what I've done when I've experienced a loss, might help you. Here's my exercise: what is the funniest memory you have of Betty? What is the one moment that really spoke to what Betty's true character is? What is the one thing that nobody knows about Betty that you think is important to remember? What is the silliest picture you have of Betty? What were Betty's thoughts on life, death, and the great hereafter, if she believed in one? What was it about Betty that made you fast friends? Was there anything you didn't tell Betty, or one thing you still wish to tell her?
- Wednesday, February 23, 2011 at 5:56:00 AM PST
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had this to say:
Your loving words convey so beautifully what a special friendship you and Betty had. Many people have friends, but to have such a close friend for nearly half a century is something to be admired.
I am so glad the two of you had such a treasured friendship.
The only negative thing about loving deeply is that the loss is so deep. My life is better for having loved deeply, and so is yours. Though the pain of grief is heavy, you have experienced love, joy, and true friendship in a way that many never will.
God be with you and all of Betty's loved ones who are trying to figure out how to live life without her there in body; she will always be there in spirit. That kind of person never really goes away completely. That smile of hers lives forever!
Drink in the love, care, and prayers that are being sent your way, dear Naomi. Like Betty, you are a very special lady to many who have come to love and care about you. I am so very sorry that you are having to bear such sorrow.- Wednesday, February 23, 2011 at 3:29:00 PM PST
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had this to say:
Hi, Naomi.
No need to publish this comment, but I wanted to mention something regarding Ms. Garrett.
Today, in one of the news magazines I read, they had her obituary. Of course, it highlighted her early film career, (I need to see her and Frank Sinatra together) along with her later resurrection via Norman Lear and All In The Family, as "Mrs. Lorenzo."
What I was unaware of, was her blacklisting during the 50's & 60's because of her husband's youthful flirtation with socialism. What impressed me were her comments regarding forgiveness, and her focusing on all the blessings in her life, including her husband, family and friends.
When I combined those few short paragraphs with your tributes during the time I've been visiting these pages, I could only marvel at what a wonderful, brave, beautiful woman she truly was.
I know she'll be missed by many and I hope the Academy remembers her this week.
(P.S. I'll send you the clipping if you wish. It's in this week's copy of The Week magazine.)- Wednesday, February 23, 2011 at 4:26:00 PM PST
- had this to say:
Good Morning dear Naomi. For some reason, I am thinking about you this morning and just want you to know that you are wrapped in love from all around the world.
- Thursday, February 24, 2011 at 8:24:00 AM PST
- had this to say:
I can't believe it took me so long to visit
here I was whinign when you're dealing with a huge loss
I'm sorry dear Naomi
sometimes I get caught up in my own mishegas
Betty was a beautiful and talented delight
I love all the photos especially if you're in them since you always make me smile
and Jeff!!
oh my Jeff, now that's a man
love you
Hope sends hugs- Thursday, February 24, 2011 at 9:49:00 AM PST
- had this to say:
Your memories are wonderful, Naomi. You musn't be sad now. She is finally with her true love and you know she is happy. Here is a hug to help you with your sadness. (((((Naomi))))). Thank you for sharing your lovely memories and photos.
- Thursday, February 24, 2011 at 6:07:00 PM PST
- had this to say:
Oh Naomi- I am so sorry about your loss, I know from the years how close you were with Betty. Believe it or not I read out her passing in Variety, and I IMMEDIATELY thought of you. I hope you can find some comfort in all the wonderful memories together, particularly how beautifully you cataloged them here and shared with us all these years.
love Rick- Friday, February 25, 2011 at 10:41:00 AM PST
- had this to say:
Dear Naomi,
it has taken me some time to really understand your's and America's loss of cultural history with the fact your dear friend Betty is not along us any more at Mother Earth.
But I must say, you have tributed for years Betty on your blog. From past history to present parties in your home. Simply Fabulous;-)
Naomi, you are such a rich giving person.
More than anyone else that I do know about.
You have broadcasted the best of American Theater history, and given positive insight behind the stage and scenes in a way that no one but you can do. Here on your blog. Given credit to so many that really deserves it.
Very different from todays use and waist culture.
I do not what to say to comfort you. I know your best friends are in an age close to the end life on planet Earth. And you has allready lost many. I think we understand both of us...
Big hugs
Tor and Anna
btw. I called my Mother this afternoon. She feels better. But you know: A sign is a Sign. Her age.
That's why I've been late with commenting and posting. But I did post something special from Oslo this evening.- Friday, February 25, 2011 at 12:29:00 PM PST
- had this to say:
Just checkin in on you sweet lady! Still sending you what I've got! XO
- Friday, February 25, 2011 at 4:06:00 PM PST
- had this to say:
hey i come by to see if you have any more Betty posts up yet.. I hope everyone is coping alright. I cant say enough to make things better but i can be a friend and if you need to e-mail and talk that is fine.. vent on someone and let us know how you are really feeling i am here.
- Friday, February 25, 2011 at 6:12:00 PM PST
- had this to say:
Naomi, Betty not only enriched your life...you certainly enriched hers. To have such a cherished and close friendship for so many years is like having a strong marriage. (sometimes such a friendship is even better than marriage)
Soothe your soul; maybe you can pick up a paintbrush and paint something for Betty and for what you shared. The brushstrokes will serve as a balm. Or maybe you can write some wonderful lyrics to embody that friendship you had with that wonderful lady.
Or maybe you will just simply continue to write in this blog and share your heartfelt feelings with us. You know we're always here to listen and send you a virtual hug across the miles...- Saturday, February 26, 2011 at 4:50:00 PM PST
- had this to say:
You are still in my thoughts, Naomi. I know you are hurting after the loss of your good friend. Peace and hugs.... F
- Sunday, February 27, 2011 at 6:08:00 AM PST
- had this to say:
I guess it's cold inside and outside with Betty in this world.
(had discovered this and loved it)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iHYqKEAehPU- Sunday, February 27, 2011 at 7:30:00 AM PST
- had this to say:
I haven't visited Here in the Hills for a long time but I've been thinking about you. I was clearing out my email inbox and I just now found the link to you.
So I was very sorry to read about the loss of your very dear Betty. That's such joy on her face in all of the photos. I don't know what to say except that my heart goes out to you.- Sunday, February 27, 2011 at 1:09:00 PM PST
- had this to say:
Naomi, I know you miss your wonderful Betty... She was a light to many people...My heart breaks for your loss....So many memories.
- Monday, February 28, 2011 at 5:20:00 AM PST
- had this to say:
I was thinking about you.
This post touched me so much. To be honest I never knew who Betty was until I started coming to your blog, and now I feel her loss too.
She's in a better place now, and her voice is as strong as it was when she was a teenager! If you listen hard enough you'll hear her again. :)- Monday, February 28, 2011 at 6:38:00 AM PST
- had this to say:
What a moving post Naomi. I can feel your sadness so well and understand it. Your friendship was one of a kind – to last so many years and be so loving. All the photographs are lovely.
- Saturday, March 12, 2011 at 2:38:00 PM PST
x4
