My heart is broken. My dear friend Catherine passed away in a tragic car accident yesterday. I will forever have a hole in my heart. I first met Catherine at Agape Christian Fellowship at UCLA. She was that cool girl on stage, singing and rocking out on her bass guitar! As I got to know Catherine, I was drawn to her smile, her positive vibes, her humbleness and faith in God. Catherine sang a special song at our wedding. Catherine drove 7 hours down south to attend my baby shower when Thomas was just a toddler. She made a special pasta dish for my family during one of our visits. That pasta dish has not only become one of our favorite recipes but it’s now a favorite memory of her love and hospitality. Catherine also surprised my kids with an egg hunt that day. Catherine showed her love to me by coming to my family reunion in Livermore. When most people would shy away from attending someone else’s family event, Catherine made time for me even if it was just to spend 30 minutes with me. And, she did this more than once. I will miss Catherine’s random texts to check up on me and to discuss our most recent concerns with our family. Catherine took everything in stride. She had a lot of concerns and responsibilities she worried about yet she still managed to smile, laugh and stay so positive through it all. She battled cancer and never wavered in her faith. Catherine was really a friend to be admired. I’m grateful for the time we had and I am at peace knowing Catherine is in heaven with our Lord and Savior. She was truly a woman who lived out her faith and love for God and people. Rest in peace, my friend. Til’ we meet again. I love you.