Dear Donna, David, Faith and Brian...

Had I but known in 2006, I would have sent this note then:

I fell upon this obituary by accident while looking for a used copy of Brian's book. It did not surprise me, for it's been a lifetime ago since I was a wee part of your lives. What it did do though, is to catapult me to your little kitchen on 7th Avenue, where heavenly aromas wafted, chatter and clatter constant and your dear Mom's laughter and twinkling eyes the main event. Her warmth was enveloping. I also remember your Dad and his powerful presence whenever he was near.

I recall so well your family trip through the U.S. that your Mom and Dad allowed me to be part of when I was just 17. I don't know if I ever thanked them properly for that trip back then but I hope they know how thankful I actually was and still am. It was a gigantic learning experience for me and one that I would never have had the opportunity to have with my own family. It truly added to my life and influenced me greatly.

In the centre of my moment of memories as I read your tribute, I also felt empathy for you all, for I know well the sorrow of loss.

So please accept my extremely belated condolences and my hearty greetings to all of you and know that I hope and pray that you and yours are all happy and well.

Sincerely,

Ann