Cheryl was my best friend. She was the most incredible friend. Always there for me during the hard times, but always there WITH me during my most favorite, fun, and memorable times.
I'll never forget our trips to Maui. Our Happy Place. Cheryl went snorkeling for the first time. Decked out in her snorkel, face mask, flippers, and "protective" swim noodle, it was quite the sight and we laughed ourselves sick. She was a fast learner and was immediately hooked. A major acomplishment for someone who never learned to swim. She fell in love with the ocean. Of course we managed to find time to indulge in our other favorite pastime, thrifting. We scoured the Island and found many treasures. We ate fish tacos ... every day! Evening sunsets on the lanai with friends were spectacular and I have more pictures of sunsets than I can count.
On our last trip to Maui, Cheryl helped me with all the arrangements for my son, Tyler's wedding to his husband Zachary. I couldn't have done it without her. Tyler, Zach, and long term friend, Brody, loved "Auntie" Cheryl. She made everything fun, and special. All of the boys' friends at the wedding fell in love with her too and were heartbroken at the news of her passing.
Cheryl was tolerant, caring, loving and kind.
She would talk with anyone and was always willing to listen. I'd loose her in the ladies room because she struck up a conversation with someone. She was such a love.
Our family is missing a very beloved "sister friend" and Auntie. Things won't ever be the same, but I am so grateful and feel so lucky to have had Cheryl in my life.
Shaysa, Ryan and Brett, she was so very proud of you and your accomplishments. We would talk for hours about our grandchildren and she absolutely adored Grady and Ellory.
Shaysa, your golfing prowess, along with your dad's, was a major topic! Ryan, your beautiful singing voice, style, and leadership abilities made your Mama beam! I will miss sharing stories with her.
If we are alive, we can't escape loss. Loss is a part of real life. Past experiences with loss, and this overwhelming loss is extremely tough for you, it is very difficult for me.
Life's mystery often seems to much to bear.
But at least you have it. You still have life. A choice as to how you will live this precious day. Don't waste it, hold it close, cherish it. Above all, be grateful for it. Rise above disappointment, opportunities lost, mistakes made. If today or the days to come seem too sad to even acknowledge; if you can't find one moment to enjoy, one simple pleasure to savor, one friend to call, one person to love, one smile to offer; if life seems so difficult you don't want to bother living it to the fullest, then don't live today for yourself. Live it for Cheryl, live it for your precious Mama.
It will make her smile.
Cheryl was my best friend. I will miss her forever. I will see her again.
❤️❤️❤️ Shari
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