I lost my mom on 2 July 2008.... the person who rejoices in my accomplishments and agonizes in my struggles; the person who thinks I should win every race and succeed at everything I do; the person whose first urge is to protect, shelter and guide - the one who knows what is best for me - or thinks she does; the one who bragged about me in my absence and offered expert advice in my presence. I lost my mom - my biggest fan and most ardent defender. She showed me unconditional love that no one else can understand, much less fill. She had an intimate knowledge of me as a baby and as a child that I myself can never have access to at all. A fundamental part of me has existence only in my mother's memory and when I lost my mom, a part of me is gone, too. She is a point of reference in determining my identity. (I'm the one that looks most like her, people say.) I've lost a piece of who I am. She is the person whose story provides the beginning of my own. I have to wonder - If I am no longer my mother's child, then who am I? Mom looked out for her children. That shield of protection, both physical and emotional, is lost when I lost my mom. I've lost my mom's hug and caress...the complete physical acceptance that a mother can give. I've lost something that can't be replaced, but I have wonderful memories and her example. And I have a sure knowledge of the gospel of Jesus Christ and the plan of salvation that I will see both her and Dad again. They have both left quite a hole. It's never easy - no matter how old you are. There were so many blessings this past week. I'm so grateful that all our children could be there to give me a hug. What would we do without families? I'm so grateful for both my parents and the legacy they left me. Leno said, "Good people go easy." And she did. I love you mom.