My mum was so special. We were as close as close could be. We were joined at the hip all my life. She used to joke with me that the apron strings had never been cut with her and me, and that the umbilical cord that once joined us was still there, albeit invisible. We didn't always agree, but the love between us was so, so strong and still is. My mum was a joker and enjoyed a good laugh with us. Sometimes people did not know how to take her, but she had a heart of gold. She could turn in bad temper very quick, but it never lasted long. When we disagreed, it would not be long before we made up again.  Before and after her death, people used to tell me she was a character. And she was. A lovable, sometimes a bit grumpy but always a loving, joking beautiful character.  In the later years, she could not help her grumpiness, as her health was so bad, God bless her. I wish with all my heart that I had done more for her when I had the chance to, because she deserved so much better and never got it.  There are so many times I recall that I wish I could turn the clock back and take care of her better. But I believe she died knowing I loved with all my being. I used to tell her, especially after my dad died, I wish you could know just how much I love you and she would say say " I do Dorothy, I do," and that's a comfort to remember. I know she still loves me and always will, as I will forever love her. She was not just my mother, she was my sister and my best friend all rolled into one. She gave me so much of herself, so much love, so much caring, so much of everything. She gave me my love of country music, of Christmas and of so many many other things. She was my everything and I miss her with every piece of my being, and I always will. Life will go on, but nothing will ever be the same without her.