~Our Beautiful Daughter, beloved, sister, grandchild and friend
January 12, 1990 - June 15, 2007
I miss your fun-loving, vivacious personality and most of all your hugs and words, "I love you, mom."
To read about Brianna's fight for her life, you'll find her story 
"The supreme value is not the future,
but the present." ~ Octavio Paz
The Christmas season is one filled with joy and wonder. It can also be a time of sadness when we miss loved ones who are no longer with us. Creating magical scenes of a snow-laden forest or an old fashioned Santa carrying gifts helps me cope with this bittersweet time of year. Spending time with my family and friends, making homemade gifts and treats and taking time to enjoy the wintery outdoors helps me appreciate the present. I hope you find many happy moments this season.
~ Iva
I was honored to have an article and art published about how my precious 17-year-old daughter fought for her life and died a hero in my eyes. You'll find it in the Melange section, page 50, in 