Adios, IKEA!

I first met Shannon at work. When we were introduced, she was surprised that a Chinese-Indonesian would have such a Scandanavian name. I told her that I look forward to dressing up one Halloween to look just like her -- blonde, blue-eyed Swede -- to match my name. We got along nicely, became friends and over time I nicknamed her "IKEA" because she is so Swedish looking. She would even respond when I greet her with an, "Holla, IKEA." Shannon left the firm last fall and despite best efforts, we lost touch.

Earlier this week, another co-worker saw Shannon's obituary in the newspaper and passed the sad news on when she got to work. We were all so shocked. Shannon was only 38-years-old and left behind two tween daughters. They were not with her at the time of her death as they live with their dad in California. The thought of children losing their mother ... and on Mother's Day weekend ... I can't even imagine what those girls must be going through.

A group of us went to the viewing last night. After expressing our sympathies to her brothers, we made our way towards the casket when a wail came from the direction of the doors ... there stood Shannon's two daughters, shaking and sobbing at the sight of their mom in the casket. My heart broke.

Adios, IKEA! Rest in peace. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family ...