Oh my........where do I begin? Gosh this is truly a shock, well, yes and no. We know when we are born some day will die, but we just don't know the date or the circumstances. Thinking back.......how many years have I known Nola? My family moved to Davis in 1949, population of 4000, so I know I knew of the family. Nola, and David, really came into my life in the early 70's. They were Tom's and my prayer couple on our anniversary weekend with Marriage Encounter. When I read David's note, Friday morning my eyes fixated on the candle that resides on the bookcase in my computer room. The candle was given to us on that weekend. What fond memories it conveys. . Nola was the type of person, who never needed an introduction. She was so outgoing, and always had a smile on her face. One thing I will never forget about her is her laugh.......so contagious. She always had good things to say about people. Truly, she was a ray of sunshine no matter where she was, She loved Christmas. I believe that is why the tree was up year round in her living room! This was true in her present home as well as the first home on the property. I remember after the house fire taking a Christmas tree ornament over to her to add to her new collection. She was so amused and appreciative! Initially when I learned of Nola's bout with Cancer...........I just couldn't believe it.. Why would someone so caring and needed on this earth, have to deal with this dreaded disease? She rallied with Chemo, Radiation, and acupuncture. Each procedure was so much for her body to endure. However, Nola never gave up. She just kept putting one foot ahead of the other, trying so hard to win the challenges. As the weeks went into months, and problems started to arrive, it was inevitable she was going down hill. Even though I thought I was preparing myself for this loss I hadn't finished my preparation. Receiving David's e-mail on Friday AM, the sad truth was there in front of me. What a loss for all of us left behind, The good thing is that some day we will all be together again! I feel blessed to have had Nola in my life. I will miss her laugh, her humor, her easy way of going, and her friendship. I will admire her for the way she looked at life, her valiant fight against cancer, and the example she set in the face of adversity. Betty