Dear Amanda,
Recently I came across a small circular wooden box. In it was a quarter and a dime and a note which read "Use this to call me any time". You gave it to me when I went a way to college in 1994. Also in my boxes of things were countless letters from you. Updates from your life and questions about mine. Years later, when I moved away to Florida and your trip was delayed by weather resulting in you (and Christina) having to come at a much hotter time of year, I lamented this, and you responded with "Well, we're not coming for the weather, we're coming to see you. We don't really care about the heat!". When years passed and I was back home in Boston, you were the friend to call regularly to let me know that you and your family were going to the museum, or to Faneuil Hall, and did I want to join? Because you knew I was lonely. You are thoughtful and loyal, and we can laugh about stupid shit together like no one else!
Love, Cydney
I photographed Amanda in my home on March 26, 2016. She lives in Salem, MA with her husband Kevin, their son Noah, 7, and their dog Bailey.
“I wish I was more free-spirited. I feel like there’s a free spirit in me in there, but it’s really hidden...but I’m loud and crazy with people I trust.”