I have just found this group, and definitely a little late. I am enjoying combing through everyone's wonderful memories of this incandescent and unique little angel that graced us with her presence. So many of you she would reference in our talks, so it is nice to be able to hear your stories and connections.

Rita had this remarkable ability to make you feel like you were the most important person in her life. You were her "star". She also framed things in such a way, that I would never be able to construct myself, because her brain just operated on a much higher plane. I found myself often saying..."what do you mean by that?" I miss her every day, but always feel her with me. Guiding me, pushing me....encouraging me. I don't think I have ever mourned her loss, either because it was too painful, or I just am still in denial.

I still hear her raucous laugh, her soothing tone of voice and her reassurances loud and clear. As if I just spoke to her yesterday. I often ask myself, what would Rita say? I wish I had a picture of the two of us and am dumbfounded that I never made sure we had one taken. Like everyone...I thought there was so much more time.

I am so happy, but also sad, to have more context to her story and her past. But am glad that she wasn't just evasive to me, but seemingly to many others, even her closest buddies.

I can only say, that I am honoured to have been in her orbit, however a small part I may have been. She was truly one of my favourite people on planet Earth. I look forward to re-connecting in another realm.

God Bless our Rita. x