It was one of many special memories that we all hold dear in our hearts today.  Memories of times spent together over the years.  Three ladies who were born in the 1930s, who grew up together, got married within a few years of each other, and had daughters within a few years of each other.  The three ladies and their husbands raised families, became empty nesters and continued to grow older together.  They sometimes vacationed together, they ate some dinners together, and they shared life experiences together.

Here they are, the three mothers and their daughters spending the evening together at a most special tea party and dinner a few years ago.  Oh, what a wonderful time they all had, eating, sharing, laughing and relaxing.

On Saturday, one of the mothers, the one in the beautiful soft turquoise jacket on the right, passed away unexpectantly.  We are all in disbelief that such a vibrant, warm, caring, genuine and young 70 something lady could leave so quickly, without any warning.  My mother and her at spent the day together on Tuesday with never a thought that it would be the last time they would be together on this earth.

This week will be so different that any of us had planned.  Our dear friend will be missed more than we can express, but we know that we will see her again, someday, in heaven.  Until then, we will carry on with the sadness of her absence with us.

That tea party remains a special memory in our hearts, but now it has become a more treasured memory than ever.  Treat those you love with kindness and love for you never know when it will be the last time you see them on this earth.