The best woman in the world

My mom.

She was exactly 80 years and 1 month old today when she passed away, with one hand in mine and the other in my sister Margot's. Daddy kissed her as her last breath whispered away. Sisters and brothers, granddaughters, a wonderful chaplain and a wonderful priest stood near and just loved her as the long fight ended.

There's so much I want to say ... how transformed she looked, literally 40 or 50 years younger ... how she transformed me, when I was a scared and hurt little girl.

Not much I can say can put the enormity into words that was the bravest, cleanest, lovingest beautiful woman who ever lived. Her name was Margaret, and everyone called her Peggy. When I named my Maggie after her, she shone like a star.

I know you're hearing this, Ma. Thank you for loving me. Please stay with me till it's my turn one day.