Posting from Dolly

I first met Elaine when her son Justin and our daughter Sophia were entering the same 3 year old preschool class. Elaine was always very cheerful and it was clear that she loved Justin and that she loved being a mom. When we went to her house for a play date, I observed that she knew what Justin liked and she provided many fun and educational toys for him. She had a wonderful smile and friendly personality.

She was delighted with Meredith's birth. I was always impressed with how much tender care she expressed with both of her children.

Even after she was diagnosed with cancer, I was struck with how brave she was and how she took good care of her children.

The last time I saw Elaine, she had finished her cancer treatment and it looked like it was in remission. We lost touch as our children were in different schools and made different friends.

I was saddened to hear of her passing and of the incomparable loss her husband and her children have experienced. I pray that God would continue to comfort her family and may her children know how much their mother loved and cherished them.

Sincerely,

Dolly Lee

Remembering Elaine

I first met Elaine in our New moms' group more than six years ago.

I keep picturing her smile and her strength. I am remembering the different times we were together -- the regular play groups -- especially the ones at her house or mine and the moms' nights out.  The special events that she helped make even more special -- including the Christmas cookie/tea party she hosted and the baby shower she hosted for me and another fellow mom. The time she came to my daughter's  birthday party at Tilden Park in Berkeley.  I remember how much it meant to me that she, Patrick, Justin and Meredith came. They made a day of it. It was a beautiful Spring day and at the end of the party some kids including Justin played softball out on an open field of grass. Then the Wai's headed off to the steam train and a favorite restaurant in Berkeley. I was impressed that they were planning such a full day -- Meredith was only  two to three months old. Elaine knew how to jump into life, to be an active participant, to find joy -- and give joy to her children and others.

Elaine and I were also in Parent Observation together when Justin and my daughter Annabelle were two years old. She and I were aides. She was very involved and so full of energy! I am so glad that we had that time together as well.

She was so vibrant, so strong. So full of love and kindness and gratitude. This is how I remember her most. The incredible strength, kindness and determination. And above all, her endless love for her children.

I am grateful and honored to have known her.

Miriam Hartmann