Thank you for being a friend, Bea Arthur!

By now I'm sure everyone has heard the news that actress Bea Arthur, known best as Dorothy Zbornak on the 'Golden Girls,' has died.

She passed away early yesterday at her home in Los Angeles. Her family says she had been battling Cancer, but died peacefully.

In the late 80's and early 90's The 'Golden Girls' was a part of my life. I can remember watching them on Saturday nights with my grandmother, and even at eight years old, I remember finding them amusing. Even till this day I will watch the ocassional re-run that airs on TV. To me the show represents a part of my life, a part of my up bringing. Watching it reminds me of my grandmother.

Arthur's on air mother, Estelle Getty, passed away last July. Now, with the passing of Bea, I am reminded how I am getting older. These were people I grew up with. I didn't know them, but to me they represent a time in my life -- when the world seemed safe, stable and especially on Saturday night, amusing.

Thanks for the laughter, Bea.

1922-2009