Laura, Mary spoke of you often and sent me a picture once that I believe is you, taking her somewhere. I know for a certainty that yours is the kind of heart we Mudcatters can't get enough of-- I recognize in you, one of us. Please know that you have a place here among us. Please consider us, if you want us, part of your extended family, too, as Mary did.

That was you who called my husband with the news, wasn't it? We thank you so much for your kindness in doing that, especially when your own burden must already have been heavy.

Your description of Mary's passing is, I think, the prettiest thing I have ever heard about her, and you know Mary's gift with words-- your description surpasses even her turn of a phrase. I had been wondering how her going was. I'm so grateful you came to tell us, and that you told us so clearly. I'm so grateful, as one who was never there for Mary as much as I wanted to be, that not only was she not alone at the last, but that it was YOU who was there. I'm glad for her, and glad for us all. She always did choose well, didn't she?

I don't know if the site's managers know of your role in Mary's life, but it might be a good thing for someone to go through her stored messages here sometime. If you want to do that, or if you want some help on that, please, let us know and I think it can be arranged. I'd also be very interested in posting some of Mary's writings, if any of her stories and essays are accessible. She had so much to share-- if it would be the right thing to do, there are many of us who would love to hear more of her thoughts and impressions on life.

But anyway-- thank you again, and again and again, from the bottom of my heart. And-- you have my phone number. Call us, anytime.

~Susan