Remembering Janet

It's hard to believe, but it has been 1 year today since my very good friend Janet Dallas passed away, from a brain tumor. I think about her often. It wouldn't be a lie to say I think about her every day. I remember the first day I met her. I was working at West Campus and I had made plans to meet our mutual friend Jennifer for lunch. We decided to walk to the restaurant. As we were walking along we were laughing and just having a great time; I thought for sure she would think I was some kind of crackpot! Apparently she either thought I was a crackpot and that was a-ok with her, or she really "got" me. I'd like to think that she "got" me. That day was the start of our friendship. From that day on we chatted almost every day.

Janet and I both had a love of books. She introduced me to so many great little second hand book stores. One day we went on a book road trip! I had my list of my favourite authors and away we went to all of the great book stores Janet had found.

Janet had many interesting practices and rituals that she performed. During one of our conversations, we talked about the nightmares that Jade was having. Janet made a dream pouch for Jade which she was to place under her pillow to take away the nightmares. As soon as she put it under her pillow, the nightmares went away. She also made courage pouches for my kids and fortune pouches for Joe and I. She always thought of other people before being concerned about herself.

She had a special place in her heart for animals. She had a couple of beautiful dogs and a beautiful horse. Unfortunately one of her dogs and her horse passed away before Janet passed. Those were very sad days for her. She had a special connection with animals. She seemed to communicate with them on a different level than everyone else.

The moon and it's different phases were also very important to Janet. I cannot look at the moon without thinking about her. Many mornings when I am driving to work in the wee hours of the morning, the moon is lighting my way to work. I feel very close to her when the moon is full.

She told me once that we had known each other in another life. She said there were high cliffs and lighthouses in the place where we knew each other. I try to remember that when I think about her and get sad about how much I miss her. I'd like to think there is something else after this place, and that maybe some day we will see each other again.

I lost a piece of myself when Janet died. I don't think I will ever find another friend like her. Our friendship was very unique and very comfortable and I miss her more than I can say.

I love these pictures of her. She loved the Nascar!!

I miss you JD.

Love you lots,

Jacqui