A moment of silence......

No scrappy post right now.... just a quiet moment to reflect, remember.  I received a phone call last night.  A dear friend who'd I affectionately called Aunt was diagnosed with liver cancer a year and a half ago has passed.  I cried more learning her diagnoses than at learning of her passing... but knowing the odds, it seemed like a hopeless struggle. 
But she fought a good fight, she did everything "right" and followed the rules.  And did it without complaint, with a strong dignity and firm resolve.  With her background and knowledge in the field, she knew her odds. 
She & my mother first introduced me to rubber stamping... she was a fabulously talented creative woman.  I once believed her to be a master of ink, but I was wrong.  I learned her passion was sewing and embroidery.  She was a sewing goddess.  Making beautiful garments, snugglies for babies and lingerie.  And not ugly cotton utility underwear either, gorgeous Victoria Secret detailed finery. 
Jean died quietly back in June.  No fan fare..just quietly.  She kept her pain and the knowledge of her impending death buried.  She remained strong for her family, children and grandchildren.  Knowing Jean, not wanting to burden others with her problems.  For she was the ultimate problem solver, the pillar of strength, whom others turned to in times of need.  I respect her wishes but am saddened.  Jean, I would have liked to help you carry this pain.  I would have liked to share how much I respected and admired you.  I will try to live by your example, calm dignified strength.  And I will never forget you.