First off, I have really appreciated all the lovely words and photos submitted of my Mom - it's very special to a daughter to hear and see how much her mother was appreciated by others. I'd also like to thank all of our friends and loved ones who have supported her & our family along this journey - my Mom was so blessed to have so many wonderful people in her life who cared so much. While she is gone too soon, I do find some peace in knowing that she is now free of pain. As many of you know, it was a lifetime-full - and my Mom never complained. She was undoubtedly the strongest woman I know. If I were to guess, my Mom is now some place wonderful watching over us with her gorgeous smile (and if I know her, she's probably sitting in a 5-star restaurant in heaven, sharing "buttery Chardonnay" with her best friend Karen, or some PEI mussels with her Dad). I suppose what saddened me most along this difficult road of cancer was not only the physical and emotional pain it caused my Mom (she always, to the end, felt she was "putting her family out") , but knowing that she would be taken from us well before she could really know her grandchildren - or they could really know "Gigi". They did enjoy many fun visits with their Gigi - and she always remembered all of their special occasions (often knitting something lovely for birthdays and Xmas, and sending "little treats" in the mail). She truly was a special individual with many gifts - and I will be happy telling her many life stories to my own girls as they grow up. Sierra and Adelaide will be lucky to inherit any of my Mom's many attributes. In a word, my Mom was "beautiful" - physically, emotionally and spiritually. She was charming, gracious, intelligent, kind - and easy to love. Many adored her quick wit - and her love of laughter (if I could name the person I have laughed most with in my life, it would be my Mom). While she was self-admittedly far from perfect (in fact, she rarely gave herself enough credit and found compliments "uncomfortable"), she certainly set the bar high. I can only hope to deal with life's future obstacles as she did in her life - with perseverance, dignity and class. There are too many memories dear to me to relate here - but I keep close to my heart our many travels as Mother-Daughter, our long chats when she would tell me "family stories", her constant support - and, our devoted friendship. Until I met my husband Yuri, my Mom was truly my best friend. I will miss you dearly Mom - and I hope, one day in heaven, we can share another "Sea Breeze" (in a tall, cold glass), a good giggle, and a great big hug. I love you - and it was an honour to have been so close to you. Kara xo