As a member of Bethesda Lutheran Church since 1970, I first met Diane when she moved back to Ames from California with her family, and they joined Bethesda Church.  Our friendship developed through various church activities and then continued with our membership in Friendship Force.  Diane was the first member from Ames to join Marshalltown's Friendship Force of Central Iowa (FFCI) club.  Later, when I joined, the majority of its members were from Ames and eventually all activity took place in Ames.  Diane served on the FFCI Board and helped recruit me to a Board position.  I remember having Board meetings in her home.  Diane was always willing to have people in... and serve one of her delicious baked treats! 

In 2002, I was with Diane and a group of FFCI members who traveled to Chile and Argentina.  We all had a wonderful time and I know Diane enjoyed every minute of that trip, including the wine and the beach! 

In 2006 I traveled by car with Diane to a FF Conference in St. Louis, MO. Lynn Avant drove us and a couple other members.  While there we visited the Missouri Botanical Gardens and were surprised, and thrilled, to discover a Chihuly Exhibit, "Glass in the Garden!"!   I think that was our first introduction to Chihuly's artwork.  We were blown away!  

In 2008, Diane and I both participated in an exchange with the Dubuque Friendship Force Club, going there for a short visit and then hosting when their club came to Ames to visit during Veishia.  Diane was a good traveler and representative of FF, wanting to learn about people and cultures throughout the world.  She was so friendly and accepting of all people.

Diane and I shared a long friendship, many interests and even our ages.  She was less than 3 months older than me.  I will miss my friend, the one whose first name we shared.