Thank You

It is very important to me, Clare, to thank you for everything that you did.  As I write this, I am still getting used to the fact that I will never hear your sweet voice - or better yet, your lovely laugh - in my ear, ever again.  But I write this post as if you could hear me.  You, sweet Clare, gave me so much inspiration to even BE a mother.   While I knew you, Tim and I were not parents.  I met, and took care of, your sweet Rayleigh and Ramsey.  You were a mom who endured law school and law firm interivews, and it seems, you were a mom who endured much more than I ever knew.  But all I know is that you were a woman who took your motherhood with such grace and love.  Aside from my own mother, you have been the most inspiring mother to me.  Your patience and love and humor with your children did not go unnoticed.  I cannot believe that I have lost you.  I cannot believe I will never see you or hear your voice again.  I am so saddened and disheartened.  I am so confused.  Sweet Erin, Kathryn, Rayleigh, Ramsey, and Ryan - I am so very sorry.  Your mother and her patience, I feel, gave Samara a much better mother.  You had a diamond in the rough.  Your mother is SO missed and SO loved.  Thank you, Clare.  God, I know you have a purpose.