Carrie –

For a little while, here at HP, we could try to pretend that you were working from home, or we could hope that you had finally decided to take a well-deserved vacation.  Until very recently, I was still able to glance up every now and then just in time to see a little green leaf fall from one of the many thriving plants that decorated your cube.  

On any other day, I would have followed the path of the fallen leaf and found you smiling on the other side of the partition, apologizing for the ‘shedding’ as you watered and pruned away.  I’d have commented on my inability to cultivate any type of flora, noting the withering foliage in my own cubicle, and we’d have started the day with a giggle. 

Our encounters were all-too-brief, but heartwarming.  Little exchanges over the cubicle wall included the weather and conference calls and plants, little daily stresses and trivial things that I worried about more than I should have – you were always ready with positive reinforcement and that infectious smile.  We’d catch each other refilling our coffee cups in the break room and chat about the hazards and joys of dog ownership.  We’d cross paths on the way into the building in the morning and voice concerns over our jobs, and more recently, worries about health.  Strolling down the hallway, we’d discuss the good times had over previous weeks, fun plans for the upcoming weekend, and family – particularly my mom and your Justin.  Your radiance was inspiring, and contagious.

These little chats may not have seemed like much - they were made to fit into the busy work days we’d both become familiar with - but after a quick visit and some encouraging advice (and maybe a hug or hand squeeze), I was always left feeling reset, ready, and optimistic.

I miss those precious moments. I struggle with trying to find the logic behind your absence.  And then I try to think about it the way you might have advised me to, with an ever-positive spin.

How lucky I am to have had something that makes saying goodbye so difficult.

I’m so grateful for you, Carrie, and for the time that we did have with you. I will cherish it always.

My thoughts and prayers continue to reside with you and your family - I hope that the many wonderful memories you made together will be of some comfort.