What an honor to be loved and cherished by Irene. I never took for granted that a classy, intelligent, loving person such as she allowed me to be so near to her and to feel every bit as accepted and loved as, at least, one of her critters and at best, part of her family. I have often told others that if I were to ever be reincarnated, I wanted to come back as one of Irene's pets. In addition, a special memory that comes immediately to mind is the time Irene and I shared a ferry ride from south of Anchorage to Kodiak Island, AK. Irene loved water and she was in her element. I recall that in the middle of the dark dark waters of night, while I and others were sleeping, Irene was stomping the decks exploring every inch, hanging near the rails, relishing in her element. I don't know that she ever came to bed that night, but I know she loved every mile of that trip and the morning after, we both saw our firsts stunning red and grey puffins clinging to the rocks along shore. A particular image of that trip that comes to mind often is that of her standing out so regally ,without even trying, while walking the streets in Anchorage, exploring and excited about each new discovery. She is a true inspiration to me and I am blessed to know her.
Cousin Lydia