Dear Mom,

I love you. I write you this letter as you are still alive but we both know that when this letter is delivered you will be gone. It is a weird feeling to know the date of your death. I have used the word weird, meaning mysteriously strange, to describe these days as we and all that are around you, move towards the date. You have boldly stepped up to take this mysterious journey – to be strong in the face of this disease and say no “I choose my own destiny.” That is you Mom, never give up, never surrender. :)

Mom, you have touched the lives of so many; as a mother, a wife, a sister, a daughter, an aunt, a Nana, a mother-in-law, a teacher, a designer and as a friend. The poise, the elegance, the love of life and the thirst and memory for sharing experiences with those around you.

Your parents gave you the opportunities to explore and be creative – teaching yourself how to be a bold and successful interior designer leaving behind a long career as a teacher.

This creativity, you share with the world, even now planning and preparing for the end. Your eye for colour, your love of fabrics, YOUR LOVE OF CLOTHES AND SHOES, your sketches of floorplans, your signature leopard print have graced the homes of your clients, many of whom became dear dear friends.
You are receiving many deep and personal notes. These notes have one recurring theme; your incredible love. It is your generous heart that teaches people about life – the tireless work ethic married to the wonderment of exploration. I have heard, and been part of, the times when you just had to have that…fabulous coat or that great sports car. This quality of living in the moment is a wonder and sets you apart mom.

I could write forever about you Mom. I am so happy for all the time we spent together – travel, work, family gatherings, and our infamous poet lunches at Joso’s. I have, as have all around you, felt your never-ending love. A day will not go by that we do not see, hear, feel or smell a scent that will remind us of you… that instant when we will remember you. I love you mom. Xoxo Jesse.