My birthday was two weeks before she passed away. I was lucky to have her here for one more birthday. This year, July 2008, I got a card in the mail as usual, but I knew it was just a card (no money inside), because a few weeks earlier I had asked her not to send any money. She was already in hospice, and knowing my mom she would have sent money. My mom said she wanted to send me something...so I said "Well, don't send money, send me something that I will have for a long time to remember you by." Which she did, and it was a very sweet gift. She sent a little letter around the same time as I received the gift saying, "I want you to give your chemistry class your best effort and utilize the tutors that are available to help you. Best of luck! Love, Mom". She knew I didn't like math, because it is one of my harder subjects. I even remember one time my mom telling me that she even had a hard time in chemistry because of the math and she droped the class when she was going to college. She knew I didn't want to take it. About a week later, as many times as I was excited to receive a card, because I knew there would be a gift of money in there, this year it was different. I was sad to see the card and how bad her handwriting had become. She used to have such pretty handwriting. I didn't want the card, money, or a gift....I wanted my mom back. I wanted her healthy and living here with us for another 30 years. I cried as I opened up the card, and with her shaky handwriting she wrote...... "Dearest Maia, I really appreciate the time you took to visit me. I enjoyed it more than I can express. I am very proud of the young woman you have become. I know you will continue to take your classes and get your degree. Love always, Mom" That card and those words, mean more to me than anything. I know that little bit must have taken so long to write, while trying to keep her hand steady. It broke my heart, but I was very lucky to have that from her before she passed. Those were the last words I have from her. I am dreading this class more than anything, not only because it's hard, but because it's 4 hours a night, 2 days a week, on top of a 40 hour work week....not to mention everything I have just been through this year and a half with my mom and my grandma. I am just not up for it! However, as much as I am dreading this college class, and how much I want to drop out of it....I am sticking with it for my mom. It was her last words to me and I can't stop now. I'm doing it for her! She is my rock and my inspiration! I love you mom!