This is an extremely bittersweet week, as last night, my dear friend Courtney Rhodes Reed took her last bow in Aladdin on Broadway and is moving to Los Angeles. She has been with the show since its inception and originated the role of Princess Jasmine. Courtney was my very first friend at Aladdin, has become one of my best friends and feels like family. Whenever I'm with her, I feel like I'm constantly laughing. In lieu of a goodbye card, I decided to write a blog post dedicated to my gorgeous, loving and talented friend. Here are three mini lessons she's taught me over the years.

01. Sweat it out.

Courtney introduced me to Soulcycle and encouraged me stick with it, even though it was challenging as a beginner. After a while, I totally fell in love with being on a bike and am now completely addicted! Taking classes with Courtney was one of my favorite activities to do together. Having a workout I literally look forward to doing has made all the difference in my health journey!

02. Find what makes you happy.

Close to two years ago, I was in Courtney's dressing room (if you can't tell we've spent a ton of time in there discussing life) and I was complaining about something, when she turned to me and asked what I did for myself on a weekly basis that made me happy. At the time, I was miserable and so consumed with work I genuinely couldn't think of an answer to respond with quickly. Courtney exclaimed that was my problem right there! I needed to take the time to figure out what makes me happy. So I did! I joined the NYJL as a volunteer, started going to Soulcycle, and started this blog!

03. Love fiercely.

I think Courtney's two major love languages are quality time and gift giving. Courtney has this magical way of bringing a group of people together and creating an amazing experience. This summer for her birthday, she invited a group of her close friends to join her for an epic sleepover party on a yacht. We loved it so much, we went back a few weeks later! Those two weekends were major highlights of the summer, and I'll never forget the nights we didn't sleep because we stayed up laughing. The way she fiercely loves, generously gives, and shows up for the important people in her life inspires me to be a better friend.