I am very sorry to be missing all the gathering of folks who cherished Ann and will be telling stories of her life. I wanted to share all of my memories and thoughts of Ann.
She is the only person I ever knew who played the violin and spoke Chinese. I was always in awe of these talents/skills. Regrettably, I can not remember her playing the violin. I read someone on Doug's Facebook post played with her in Taiwan. I didn't even remember her going to Taiwan? I remember going with Ann on a bus from Denver to Boulder so she could practice or play with someone or a group. I don't remember the details.
I have four vivid memories of being with Ann. One was when mom and I visited Ann and Doug in Ireland. Ann and I went for a walk just the two of us so she could show me her neighborhood. Another was when Ann and Doug visited me in New Hampshire and we went to the bike trail in Franconia Notch and I pushed Ann in a wheel chair. She directed Doug to take photos of everything. I LOVED her sense of wonder and awe. The best part was we saw a large moose right off the trail. Ann wasn't fearful at all. I laughed that I wasn't sure what to do- use Ann as a shield for protection or spin the chair around and run. The moose did not charge fortunately, and Doug had the composure to catch a great close-up photo. I enjoyed being with Doug and Ann and their daughter's family at the reunion in Estes Park. Thanks for organizing this event Amy and Jan. Lastly, I am so glad Doug and Ann drove to Denver for Tom's event as this was the last time I saw Ann!
Most of my memories of Ann were after the stroke which caused her to no longer be as mobile or able to speak fluently. What amazes me is I never saw Ann depressed, cynical, or mad about her condition, frustrated-yes! She never seemed judgmental of anyone or anything. She was always engaging and warm as if she was relishing the time we were spending together.
From what I know of Ann and Doug, Doug made it possible for Ann to see and do so much and Ann was so willing. They travelled to places most folks never get to see- including the continent of Africa. I loved the photos Doug posted of Ann exploring and feeding a bird. Ann seemed to love life and this was contagious.
I wish I could give Ann one long, warm embrace. Somehow, I feel she knew the effect she had on those around her, including me. Every encounter was a gift. Instead of thinking of Ann living a frustrating life, I think of her as living a blessed life!!
I will be thinking of you all on the 30th and I am so sorry I am missing the event.
Let's have another reunion soon, before we lose someone else!