I recall the picture you took of me walking in your shoes, when I was 18 months old ! You captured a moment in time ,that reflects my life today.

You instilled a sense of pride in me as a young girl, to always do my best. That has since evolved into what I now hold as my banner as a" Woman of Excellence". I have made many mistakes and have learned my share of life lessons on this journey called life.I'm grateful for your guidance,correction and belief that I was someone special.You always saw the best in me and held me to a high standard.You always built me up and never tore me down.

Although you have departed this life , I continue to hear your instructions , encouragement and inspiration to be the very best Woman I can be.You instilled a drive and passion that burns deep within me to conquer my fears and step out on faith to acheive greatness.Your expectations of what I could acheive in my life has superceeded both of our wildest imaginations.God get's the glory for being my Potter,for I am his clay.

I'm walking in your shoes of excellence to be diligent, honorable , loving , spiritual , introspective ,consistent , honest , respectful ,trustworthy , giving , motivated and supportive in every area of my life.

Your legacy is kept alive by the values you instilled in me . I have passed those values on to your loving Grand-daughters Allegra & Tatiana. They have been raised to think and do the impossible because they are God's children.They have been loaned to me for such a time as this, as I was you..You would be so proud to know that they are "Honor Roll" College bound students ,with a passion for excellence. They are also advocates for doing the right thing and being examples for others to follow. For that I'm sure you would be so proud.

I am honored to be your only daughter and eldest child.To God be the glory for choosing you to be my Mother, Mentor and Confidant , you were my best friend.I'm grateful to God for allowing me to live life to the fullest and in the overflow in many aspects of my life.The best is yet to come, as I continue to walk in your shoes of excellence to make my dash count. Dr. Allegra Wood - Jackson, you are a tough act to follow. I will do my best , and let God do the rest !

One of the most important revelations I have had is that my life is that it is not about me, it's about what I can do to help others be the best they can be. My gifts and calling are without repentance.I was so grateful to God when you shared your thoughts that I am an excellent Wife, Mother, Businesswoman and most of all a true Woman of God 2 weeks before you passed away..I praise God that you saw that in me before your journey was over.I have peace in knowing that you are present with the Lord, I will see you again !

I proudly carry the torch to win this race ,as I walk in your shoes of excellence with God's grace.