in memoriam: Anne Marie Murray, 01/1955 - 05/2002

The harder the conflict, the more glorious the triumph. What we obtain too cheap, we esteem too lightly; it is dearness only that gives everything its value. I love the man that can smile in trouble, that can gather strength from distress and grow brave by reflection. 'Tis the business of little minds to shrink; but he whose heart is firm, and whose conscience approves his conduct, will pursue his principles unto death.
- Thomas Paine

The call we'd been dreading came in a few minutes ago. My aunt died the way she lived - with a minimum of fuss, with people around her who loved her. Thank you for your thoughts and your prayers for her and for us. She refused sedation at the end, my cousins say, but though she must have been in pain, she died with a smile on her face. We'll miss her terribly. But it makes it just a little easier.

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Happy birthday to ameth and ryocoon, and happy Mother's Day to all the moms and expectant moms on my friends list today - especially to laura and redthread, who are celebrating their first Mother's Day with their littles. Welcome to the most fascinating, frustrating, rewarding experience you'll ever undertake.

To everyone on my friends list today, a request. Go find your loved ones and tell them just how much they mean to you today, will you? You can never tell them too often - and the time is just too short.