We root each other to the core of who we are, rather than what defines us as adults—by careers or spouses or kids. There's a young girl in each of us who is still full of life.
Chapter 6. "The Girls From Ames: A Story of Women and a Forty-Year Friendship" p. 98.

But those with the most friends outlived those with the least friends by 22 percent. In fact, researchers say a woman who wants to be healthier and more psychologically fit in her old age is better off having one close friend than half-a-dozen grandchildren.
Chapter 6. "The Girls From Ames: A Story of Women and a Forty-Year Friendship" p. 99.

"There's this comfort zone," says Marilyn. "It's good for my mental health to know there's a group of people I can turn to at any moment in my life, and they'll be my safety net."
Chapter 6. "The Girls...