October 31, 2002

..Barb's death made us all too aware of how we need to take a moment out each day and let our partner know we love them.

We were also talking about how although we don't really keep in touch with very many folks from Tucson on a regular basis its really important for us to know that they are there. The world somehow seemed a better place knowing that Barb Monroe was out there in Tucson, this really warm, happy presence. And if we ever showed up at an FAC or something, Barb would likely be there and we could just pick up conversation where we left off. Its very hard to think that that won't be possible anymore.

I have lots of great memories of Barb. One of my favorite ones is at my wedding. I remember that was such a hectic day for us and finally we were at the reception and people were dancing around and Barb was out on the dance floor boogeying down with Jon...they were having a great time. After the dance was over she came up to me breathless and said "Emily, your husband is a GREAT dancer, you are so lucky!" It was the first time anyone had ever called Jon "my husband"...and while it may seem trivial for folks who have been married a long time, having Jon suddenly transform from my boyfriend to my husband in just that one small comment seemed like a major recognition of a huge life change at that moment....