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There are countless things I could say about you Aunt Karen. You color so many of my memories and I am so very fortunate that I had you in my life for the past 31 years. When I think of you, many things come to mind. As a young girl, I remember thinking you were so glamorous - you always looked so beautiful, were so poised, so intelligent and worldly. I knew you as someone with a powerful and important job; someone who didn't take sh*t from anyone; someone who could stand on her own two feet as a strong and independant woman - but at the same time the most loving, caring, devoted person to have in your corner. As I grew into a young adult, I got to know you in new and different ways. You were still my glamorous aunt, but you moved closer and I got to know you on a deeper level. You were my cool aunt - the one who could talk about clothes, boys, and music. But you were also my strong aunt - the one who could be so very encouraging, so smart and sure of herself, and so inspiring. Over the past 10 years, you were a permanent fixture in my life. There are so many things that your presence impacted - you were there on my wedding day, on my 21st birthday, on so many holidays and celebrations. You were my concert buddy, the life of the party, the hilarious and fun aunt. You became one of my children's favorite people - especially Kalissa's. She loved going to visit 'girlfriend'. I can see you thru her eyes and see that the way she views you is so very similar to my awe as a child.

When you were diagnosed, I felt like I'd been punched in the gut. I could not believe that the incredible vibrant Karen that I knew was really sick. I will never forget sitting in the hospital with you, and thinking about how strong and poised and incredible you were even in a time of shock following your diagnosis. As time went on and you fought your disease, you remained so strong and so full of your personality. Even to the very end, your way of looking at life and way of looking at your impending death was so meaningful - so filled with love and caring for your family, with dignity and sometimes humor. I will never forget the many talks we had in the past few months; the insight and wisdom that you shared with me.

There are not enough words to express my sorrow and the emptiness that is felt knowing that my future does not have you in it. I will think of you each and every time I hear Nickelback or AC/DC. Every time I get a compliment on my awesome Eagles purse. Every time I see a pair of high heeled black boots. I love you so very much, and will miss you more than words can express. Thanks for the memories and for the impact you have had in my life. I love you.