A Thanksgiving Conversation

Lisa: Leslie, can you believe this is our seventh Thanksgiving as Lotus Network co-founders?

Leslie: I really can’t. And even more unbelievable? Over forty-five years of working together—first as event architects, now as  “let’s build this” partners in our next chapter. Who would’ve guessed?

Lisa: Looking back on those years, planning hundreds of celebrations—whether for families, nonprofits, or corporate teams—were some of the most joyful and meaningful of our lives.

Leslie: They really were. What a gift… but eventually the 2 a.m.cleanups started whispering, “Ladies, reinvention might be calling.”

Lisa: And we listened. We knew we had one more big leap in us. And Lotus Network became that leap—a place where women could learn, connect, grow, and rediscover themselves.

Leslie: I’m so grateful we did that together. Your friendship, your steadiness, your humor… they’ve carried me through every twist and turn of this adventure.

Lisa: Same here. I couldn’t imagine doing any of this without you—your wisdom, your loyalty, your belief in what women can become.

Leslie: And let’s not forget Shell and Andy—our behind-the-scenes heroes—lifting boxes, offering reality checks, and believing in this dream before we could even describe it well.

Lisa: Truly. And our board members, past and present, have been right there with us—helping shape Lotus into a community where women feel welcome, valued, and inspired.

Leslie: Thanksgiving always makes me pause and think about what we’ve built: a community of women who show up for each other and a wide range of high-quality programs. One size doesn’t fit all, so creating different pathways for women to experience connection and belonging has always mattered to both of us.

Lisa: And at the heart of everything? Friendship. Ours—and the friendships that form every time women walk through a Lotus door. It’s amazing how quickly women feel seen when they’re here.

Leslie: Speaking of friendship…

Lisa: I know where you’re going.

Leslie: Yep—the Circle of Friendship Campaign. It really is such a perfect reflection of who we are as a community.

Lisa: It gives women a way to support something they care deeply about—ensuring Lotus can continue offering programs that spark purpose, courage, and connection.

Leslie: And every contribution helps keep this safe, welcoming space thriving—so women always have a place to land, learn, and lift each other up.

Lisa: You know, Leslie… after all these years, I think what I’m most grateful for is that we’ve never stopped believing in each other.

Leslie: And we’ve never stopped believing in the women we serve. That’s what keeps me inspired every single day.

Lisa: Me too. And honestly? Doing this with you has been one of the greatest gifts of my life.

Leslie: Same here, Lisa. Truly. I wouldn’t want to be on this journey with anyone else.

Lisa: So from the two of us—two friends who aren’t done creating together—not even close—Happy Thanksgiving.

Leslie: With so much gratitude… and one small request from our hearts.

Lisa: If Lotus has touched your life, or if you believe in the power of women supporting women…

Leslie: …we’d be honored  if you’d join us in the Circle of Friendship this year.

Lisa: You can use the link below—it’s simple, meaningful, and it truly keeps this community thriving.

Leslie: And it means more to us, and to the women we serve, than we could ever express.

Lisa: Thank you for walking alongside us.

Leslie: And for making this journey such a beautiful one.

Together: Happy Thanksgiving.


Lisa Cook and Leslie Heins