Maurine, it's been a year since your passing and not a day goes by that I don't think of you, miss you and aspire to be the kind of person you were - loving, genuine, compassionate, giving, thoughtful, brave, talented and caring. Taylor is now engaged to be married to Tay (you wished for it and it happened), Adam is about to transition careers and is doing some volunteer work, and your granddaughter Sierra had a successful first year of high school and will be joining the choir in 10th grade. She's learning to drive, too. Family gatherings aren't the same without you. I can still hear your voice in my head, laughing and chatting and offering to help cook or do the dishes even when your back was causing you terrible pain. We use your quilts every day and I've got your photo posted next to my computer to keep me inspired as I try to finish my book. Your physical presence is gone, but your spirit is deep within us, making us better people because we knew and loved you.