It seems as if 4 years has passed by in an instant. I can see Mom at her last party, jingling all the way on the bus that Katie rented. I remember burying her on New Years Eve, missing the sparkle and joy in her eyes forever.

I can see Dad talking about the fact that he had very little time left, perhaps 3 years, he felt in his heart. Every moment was a precious one. Every day a joy to be with him. In that time we were able to spend, we all became so close, spending time that most don't take the time to do. Our lives were entwined in our love for our parents and for each other. We shared the good and the bad, laughing and crying. I have so many precious memories ... from eating Thai food together to singing Karyoke with the "Pointer sisters review", which would not have been complete without a tambourine. We spent many days at the hospital and many nights crying ourselves to sleep.

We watched helplessly as our parents died in front of our eyes. We grieved together, as a family. We worked together. We went through every scrap of our childhood and tried to come to grips with what had happened.

The absolute overwhelming loss of Katie is impossible to explain. It is impossible to fathom.

Katie, as you so often told your closest friend, you are our rock. We miss you more than we can say, and we sit and ponder what could have been.

Every night I look at my home and think of you, laughing, crying, talking, and discussing life. You were wise beyond your years and your influence will go on forever.

I love you.

Jean