In 2005 I had the unfortunate task of planning my mother's wake. She wasn't a traditional woman and she asked to be cremated and her ashes were to be scattered in Montana. Given that my home is in Los Angeles, I decided to scatter half of her remains off the coast at my childhood beach and the other half in Montana as she wished.

This was difficult to do twice, but it wasn't about me. This was for everyone in both states. It enabled our loving friends to say goodbye and to help with their own healing.

I love and miss you so much mom. Thank you for all that you have ever done for me. You opened my eyes in so many ways and I am so thankful to have been your son. You live in me and I will never forget.