One of my earliest memories
3 or 4 playing spinning top

Significant because it was the first and the last time she allowed me to see her display any emotional vulnerability

Faced many unjust challenges
Challenges that would fill the strongest of us with bitterness and grievance.

She never was bitter nor did she ever complain - in fact she was rather intolerant of any expression of self-pity

Her outlook was permanently optimistic
Always resolving to protect her children from any anxiety with a shield of encouragement and love.

She always conducted herself, no matter what the situation, with irresistible grace and charm.

The courage that she possessed would flatter the greatest of warriors and yet the depth of her loving kindness was endless.

Materially she possessed little but spiritually she was richer than any one of us.

For me the debt is priceless.
If it hadn't been for her constant encouragement and support throughout my life I could never have ventured as far.
In truth I owe her a great deal and can only begin to repay my debt with, for what is for me, an unsurpassed respect and love.

Mother was an exceptional lady who set the finest of examples.
She was, in short, a true inspiration, her praise being more addictive than any illegal high.

We are all extremely lucky to have had in our lives for as so long as we have.

Thank you for a wonderful life mummy.

May god bless you and keep you - forever beautiful Xx