Dear gūjè,

I have struggled for a few weeks now to sit down and write this little farewell. You know how it is, we were so much similar, we both preferred showing affection with our deeds rather than with our words. There is so much left unsaid and so many future moments will not be fully experienced without your presence. I could have never imagined that when I first met this crazy lady who brings whole cooked chickens from Portugal we would grow so close in what seems such a short time. 

You have always guided me, always telling me off when I mess up, but most importantly you were always here for me and my family. You were always positive and so full of life, as if experiencing everything for the 1st time. You always gave the best advice, you always said it as it is, without beating around the bush, and you could always turn something so simple into something wonderful. 

I still remember when years ago telling you I had tickets for the Arsenal game and I didn't want to take Alex with me as he really is not into footy and he would be grumpy the whole time if I made him come. You told me that you would like to go and there we went, walking with the other supporters toward the Emirates, eating a greasy burger on the side of the road and having a great time. After that we have had many good times that I will cherish forever. Now to think of it, most of our good times revolved around food!!!! Lunchtime meet ups in the Dragon Castle or Picos, going to Tao Tao Yu whenever Patrick came to London, our canal boat trips, our great times in Dubrovnik and Hong Kong...

I am going to miss your presence in my life, our evening chats on the phone, your advice and guidance and most importantly your friendship. You were such a remarkable person and I am blessed to have met you. The time we had was short but you are always going to be in our hearts.

You are in a better place now and we will meet again.

All our love,

Ivana, Alex and Eva