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And So It Is Just Like You Said It Would Be






Eleanor Anne O’Connell Decret, fighter, writer, designer, inspiration,  and most importantly, my mother, passed away two weeks ago. Despite her putting so much of her life on her blog to the public, she was a private person when the times got tough. There were ups and downs, and she shared most all of these moments but because of her humor, she never let anyone know when times got really bad. She passed away peacefully in her Montecito home, surrounded by loved ones on August 30th, 2016. (Someone also told me it is the same date Princess Diana died but Paris time. If true, this would have made her so morbidly happy) It is not up to me to give more details even though I know people want as much as they can get as her story is ending. I like to think it was just me that she was fighting to stay alive for, but I know it was a mixture of me and you -- all of you. She thrived on your comments and cards; cheering her up even in her darkest days. Some of you have been following her from the very beginning, all the way back in 2008 I think. She had always been a great writer and finally found an outlet where she was able to say whatever the fuck she wanted, with no repercussions as it was all hers. I am not a writer like she was, I don’t know how to write a touching tribute to her for all of you to read so I thought I could share some little bits about her that I don’t think she has written about (maybe she just deemed them unimportant, but now they all seem important).

Secretly her favorite restaurant was the French Market in Disneyland California. It the only place we eat when we go to Disneyland; she loved the buffet of French Dip Sandwiches and Mac and Cheese and an icy cold Coca Cola.

She once gave away my dog while I was at school.   She said he was ugly (he was a Chihuahua, so fair enough). 
But she also once surprised me with a new bike in our yard when I was at school.

Her favorite book was A Prayer for Owen Meany. (My aunt has had a copy of it for 6 years but still hasn't read it. )

When I was 16, I went to Times Square.  Without an adult.  And she found out. I had to wait inside TGIF’s until she personally escorted me home in a cab. That was the closest Ive been to death so far.

She loved a good theme. Most of my Christmas presents had a theme if I had expressed an interest in anything about a month before December. I took a painting class in 5th grade, and all my presents that year were art themed, the next year, horses. 

Everyday after school we would go to Jamba Juice and we would split a chocolate cherry smoothie and a parmesan soft pretzel. 

Her favorite holiday for decorating the house was Halloween. She would use tea to dye cloth and drape them all over the house. We had these skull lanterns that are still somewhere in storage, that lined our walk way up to our front door where she would only buy white or green-grey pumpkins. Hated it as a kid, think it looks amazing now and will never buy an orange pumpkin. 

Her last meal was Taco Bell, so she died happy.

Her most embarrassing moment was when she ran into her ex French boyfriend in Paris, coming out of Zara covered in dog poop. 

I know she would have loved Rob & Chyna on E! that came out a few days ago, if she had known it was premiering so soon, she would have hung on a little longer I think. 


She used to steal Hydrangea’s from our neighbors, which Yolanda would then steal from us. 

She wanted to be remembered as mother and when I asked her if there was anything else, she said no, that was the most important aspect of her life.

Somehow, even though she was just a head, she wrote a book. She left a great legacy of sharing her story with everyone who needed some inspiration.  Especially for those when nothing seems to be going their way. I know all of you wanted her to keep fighting but the truth is, she was tired; we were all tired. She worked constantly on her book and now it has become a way for her to be forever with us through her story. We wanted to reopen the sale of my mom’s book, as I will not be able to keep up her blog to her high standards.  She had a sense of humor that no one, not even Chelsea Handler could compete with. Her voice was so clear in her writings, sometimes too clear even. She had the ability to connect and automatically be loved by all even if she was insulting you, a truly unique trait of her. People just loved to be around her. 

I want to thank everyone for their support and kind words. It is truly remarkable seeing all this support from people all over the world. She is still here though, I can feel her haunting me sometimes.









212 comments:

  1. Well written. Thank you! Ellie is smiling i am sure. Xo

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    1. Oh dear, when I saw Have Some Decorum in my inbox I sat on it for a couple of hours, not knowing to open or not, staring at the subject field with in trepidation and the fear of the unknown.
      When I finally got the courage to read your touching post Gracie, I am so grateful and so touched that the memory or Ellie will always continue across the miles. Her soul lives on.
      Love from Australia Suzana x

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  2. Thank you. What a beautiful tribute. Can't stop the tears. Your mom was amazing and I wish you all the best in your life.
    xoxo
    Elena

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  3. Thank you for letting us know and for sharing your beautiful thoughts. She truly was an inspiration!! It was an honor to be in her blog world! I will miss her voice so much. I went to high school with Christy Nichols. The story Christy wrote about you and your mom was so lovely. Grace, you really are fortunate to have had such a crazy, passionate and caring mother. Her love and the love of her friends and family will sustain you. I hope you consider all of her readers your friends too. Leigh Fischer Charlotte NC

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  4. I have checked and checked waiting to hear from you! Thank you so much! Your mum, having never met her, meant the world to me. I can hear her through you.

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  5. I can hear your mum through you. So similar. Thank you.

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  6. Hi Gracie. Thank you so much for this post. I knew she was very ill but it seemed there would always be another post, her spirit was so strong. I beg to differ about your writing, if I may. Your "voice" comes through loud and clear. If you want to post again, sometime, I will keep checking back. A big hug to you and your family. Bon courage.

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  7. I can't imagine what you're going through but you did her proud with this post!! Thanks so much for sharing your mom with us!!

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  8. I am so very sorry for your loss.Ellie inspired me. She made me live better. And boy did she love you so much. Her energy lives on. Thank you Ellie for sharing your story....

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  9. What a wonderful suprise! And thank you Grace. I miss your mother so much and I am a complete stranger. Thank you for giving closure to her blog. I do have her book which I read in one sitting when I got it. I am not a writer and english is not my first language so I will make it short. I wish you to be happy. You had the best teacher in your mother. Sending love from South America. Love. Rosemarie

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  10. Dear Gracie, what a lovely tribute and you are a beautiful writer, I can feel her presence in every sentence. Only one fuck though, you might want to work on that, but oh she is so proud of you. I hope you will continue adding to the blog when you have something to say, as we would love to listen. Mary B

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  11. Beautiful post. I disagree that you are not a writer. My father died when I was 25 and one of the most comforting things that someone said to me was that all of that love that he gave me while he was here was still with me. And whether there is an afterlife or not, maybe that is one way that we live on, in the ones we loved. Because in the end, it's all love. Peace to you in this difficult time and thank you for writing this beautiful post. Your mother would be so proud. I'm just a person in the internet here, but I will miss her voice so.

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  12. Of all the things written in this space I think this is the one your mom would be most proud of. She will be missed dearly by those of us who stopped by here. She was a gem but I bet you already know that. All my love to you, darling Gracie.

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  13. Peace and love to you Grace. The world is dimmer without her.
    Jo xx

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  14. my deepest sympathies, Gracie. -Rose

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  15. Grace. Here you are. Thank you so much. Sending love and condolences to you, even though they are from a stranger and that is inherently weird, and I am acutely conscious that having all these "fans" of your mother's thinking they can possibly be experiencing grief alongside you has got to be surreal at best, as she was no one else's mother but yours, and readers and daughters are not even close to the same, and though she touched lives through her writing, we did not know her and you knew her better and more intimately than anyone in the world. Still, it is so moving to hear your voice, and know you took the time to connect in this beautiful, generous way. You are clearly the writer and innately funny and dry person your mother was, and your words are perfect. You rock for writing this and hope you are doing okay.

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  16. Gracie thank you!! Thank you for taking the time to write this beautiful post! And again, sorry for your loss. Although I never met your mom, I also, cried after I learned the news. I Hope you stay in touch with us!

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  17. The perfect tribute. Thank you. Tonight there will be a Taco Bell dinner in her honor. You truly are the very best of her.

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  18. Thank you Gracie. And don't kid yourself, you are a writer. This is a beautiful entry to your mother's blog. My love to you and your family.

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  19. Thank you for this post Gracie and your writing is beautiful.
    My heart goes out to you and your family.
    Your Mother showed such courage and strength as she shared her journey with ALS which she Cleverly peppered with a healthy dose of humour on her blog. I bought and read her book which I will read again....her spirit was bright and I am very grateful that I had the opportunity to be one of her "imaginary friends!"
    Take care,
    Leslie

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  20. I am at work with tears running down my face. A very heartfelt, loving, extraordinarily beautiful tribute. I am so very sorry for your loss. Your mom was incredibly inspirational and left a lasting gift to all of us. Thank you for posting this.

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  21. Bless you... You will never ever be alone

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  22. Rest in peace Ellie. I will miss you.

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  23. Thank you for that wonderful tribute. I will miss her. If possible, please don't take down her blog... I read and re-read and use it as a reference. She contributed so much through her blog, educating us, cheering us on, showcasing the beauty in life, wherever you find it. Her resilience and humor was an inspiration.
    Thanks Ellie and farewell. Alex

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  24. Sweet Gracie,

    You have no way of knowing the number of prayers which have been sent up on behalf of your mom, you family, and specifically for you. Thank you for sharing your memories of your mom, and I know she is so very proud of you and continues to influence (haunt) you as you go about your days. While your mom's words live on through her book and her writings, her biggest tribute is you, darling. Much love and may prayers for you and your family as you adjust to a new normal (if there is such a thing).

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  25. Thank you for this! We all need closure!❤️🙏

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  26. I saw the Decorum blog on the screen and thought happily, "Our Ellie is back!" and then
    read the entry....and thought sadly, yet happily, "Our Ellie is Home" I will never forget
    you, Ellie love, and will be ever grateful to have known your courage, delight in life and
    irreverent, yet so reverent, indomitable spirit...."All which our child's mistake fancies
    as lost, He has stored for us in Heaven, home..." Live and rest in peace.

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  27. Thank you for sharing your mother with us. She inspired many and taught us the true meaning of 'Bon courage.'

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  28. Amazing.
    Like your Mother.
    Thank you for your words, thank you for taking the time to talk to us, thank you for telling us how happy she was, thank you for telling us how tired she was, thank you for telling us just a little more about her, the things that meant something to you.

    Most of all thank you for sharing the last few years of an extraordinary life of an extraordinary woman with all of us.

    MB

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  29. Nailed it Gracie!! Your mom lives on through you!! I know she is by your side always and forever!! 😘❤️ xoxo Deb

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  30. Perfect Gracie. Thank you for the final chapter. Sending you all the love you need to live boldly. She was and will remain such an inspiration to me and so many others. XOXO Nancy

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  31. Perfection! Just like your mom. God Bless darling girl. God, you made her so happy!!!
    Sending love and support from someone you have never met.

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  32. THANK YOU FOR THIS BEAUTIFUL POST HONORING YOUR MOTHER
    SHE GAVE US SO MUCH INSPIRATION AND LOVE
    STAY STRONG GRACE AND KNOW THAT YOU TOO ARE AN AMAZING WOMAN

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  33. Thank you Gracie for what must have been a hard blog to write. We all feel like we know you through your moms writing. Your mom was really one of a kind

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  34. Dear Gracie,

    That was a beautiful tribute. I think one of the reasons your Mom connected with all of us was to know that there would be a lot of people on earth both looking out for you, and hoping to keep you on track. We're out there. Just sayin. (with a wink) Also, your writing is very true, clear and funny, and so you shouldn't say you don't know how to write a touching tribute for all to read, because you just did, and very well. Your mother was such a force of strength, hilarity, honesty.... I will not forget how much she made me laugh, think and feel fearless, even though she was bound by illness, and I only knew her through a blog. I mean, some people I see and talk to in person, on daily basis for 10 years have not made such an impact. Your mother was one of a kind, a true force, and true gift to us all. I know that it has been hard for all, for her, and especially for you. It won't be easy going forward either, because that is how life is. Just know that your Mom did a great job of bestowing on her readers so many gifts, and one of them is that we all want the best for you. Wishing you all of the good in the world. I'm sure we'll be seeing you carry on her tradition of greatness, in your own way, in the years to come. Thank you for sharing these words, and generously sharing your mother over the years. She and you are loved by all of us weirdo strangers who find her unique brand of sass and class the absolute cat's meow. All the best to you. Meghan in Minnesota

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  35. Gracie,

    Thank you for sharing your mother with us and for writing such a beautiful tribute to her. Sending love and hugs to you and David. xoxo

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  36. Thank you for sharing a little bit more of your mom. She will be deeply missed by all of us, most of which have never met her. She really was an inspiration and her voice helped me in some of the darkest times of my life. She taught me that its important to share our voices. Even if those voices don't address our problems directly, they give us incredible moral support, make us laugh, and inspire us along the way. Your mom was incredible, which I'm sure no one knows that more than you.

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  37. Thank you so much for this. You are so gracious to step outside of your loss to share with us. I can't believe her favorite holiday to decorate for was Halloween. I feel like I've been living a lie! I might not have liked her if I'd known... :) I'm so impressed you're back at school. Such a testament to the strength of your spirit. I'm probably being delusional (wouldn't be the first time today) but I think your mom dropped in on me last week when I was cooking. I might not have had any idea if not for my dog crouching and wagging her tail approaching nothing physical just the way she does when the doorbell rings. I apologized because I hadn't done my hair yet and I told her my house was usually cleaner even though it's not.
    Thinking of you and thank you again for your generosity.

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    1. I think if Ellie had to choose only one of her "imaginary friends" to visit, it would have to be you, Stephen! ;)

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  38. Remember that everyone that loved your Mother, in turn, loved you as well. She loved you, we love you. We enjoyed her writings about you. We all send you love. If you ever needed something, all of us would be there for you!

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  39. Thank you for this. It almost makes up for never hearing the stories she mentioned in her last post. My heart breaks for you, for her family and friends, even for all of us blog followers. Know that you have lots of imaginary aunties and uncles pulling for you, if it helps. If it doesn't, well, never mind! Thanks for reopening the book sales too. Am I right in thinking that their income benefits ALS research?

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  40. Beautifully written Grace. I know your mom is so proud of you .....xo

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  41. Beautifully written Grace. I know your mom is so very proud of you.....xxoo

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  42. We All miss her. I think of her and am grateful I 'knew' her everyday. She touched the world from a little chair in Paris.

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  43. Bless you Gracie! So soon after you've lost your mom and you have the courage and grace to do this post for your mom's readers. Your mother would be so truly proud of you but more importantly, I hope you are proud of you. You have been through so much more than someone your age should be asked to do and you have come through it looking for all the world like a superstar. I know you're not feeling that way right now but you are a most impressive young woman--don't ever forget how special you are--and that you have a world full of readers who are wishing you their best.

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  44. lIke many here I never met your Mother, but her writtings connected me to her... (the internet at its best)
    Please know that I will never forget your Mother. Now you go out and have a great life.... that will be her greatest triumph..

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  45. I am so sorry to hear of her passing. Your post was a lovely tribute to your mother. I wish you all the best, and please know I am sending you love and hugs. Your mother has been an inspiration to me, and I will not forget.

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  46. Thank you for this. It's beautifully written. Ellie will be missed by many. I came across her insta and got interested cause our journey is an ALS journey as well. She always made me laugh, her stories were brilliant. ALS is not an easy journey, yet in some aspects so beautiful. One day we will all be departing this Earth and being surrounded by love is the most we can do for one another, she lived well till the end. I sent her a post card from the Philippines where I went in April and it made me sooo happy when she wrote in her last blog she brought all of these letters, postcards with her. I am sorry for your loss. Love, Vera

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  47. Grace. This post is Beautifully written. Your mother would be so proud. My sincere condolences to you and your family and friends. Your mom was truly one of a kind. Refreshing, honest and funny. I am saddened at the thought of her not being here to brighten our day but I know she's probably in heaven cracking everyone up with her wit and decorating it the way it should be. And so it is, we are left better for having known her through her writing. Thank you. ❤️

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  48. You have written a lovely tribute to your amazing Mother, Gracie. She would have thought you did a fantastic job.

    It seems trite to say she changed my life, but hand to my heart, she did. She kind of made sense out of all of it.
    I don't think there could ever be a time in my life where I will forget Ellie and her guiding light. Nor will the world, she was just that important. I have her book and look at the beautiful pictures of her and you and the whole world of Ellie and read her story so full of truth and guts. It makes me realize just what a lucky girl I am to have found her.

    I'm so happy that she got to pass where she wanted to. I hope that made things a little easier for her. You can write, Grace, and you carry so much of your Mothers wit and charm and spirit. It would be a joy to see you here every once in a while, because you, too, have become a part of our lives.

    It was amazing to see a Mother who loved her daughter so much that her daughter grew up to be a kind and loving woman just like her Mother.

    My deepest sympathy to you and all your family, Gracie.

    Love
    Livia Albright

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  49. Perfect tribute, Grace.

    Her blogs were acerbic and sometimes downright rude - but the one thing that always shone through was her fierce, unending love for her daughter.

    I bought her book a while back, but will re-read it now.

    She was kind enough to have the odd e-mail exchange with me and I will always be glad of that.

    She will be hugely missed.

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  50. Oh Grace, I love you and your mom and I thought she would live forever--she had so many close calls and came through before. I think she gave you a good base to move forward. Chapeau to you for writing this. It must be so hard.
    Huge hugs. You know that if you ever need anything--a time to get away, or whatever, you just go to the contacts on your mom's blog and say, hey, it's Gracie, can I come and crash at your place for a while? And I would say sure. And since I have seen the photos I will know if it's a hacker impersonating you. (That is something your mother would have thought of.)
    But seriously don't hesitate to reach out. Best wishes to you, dear Gracie.

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  51. Beautiful Grace, I have a million things to say and yet can't find the words - and this coming from "Heather bis" - you know that I always had too many suggestions for everything in Provence! So I will just state the obvious: I loved your Mom very much and I am a better person for having known her. I am actually still learning the lessons that she planted and will be for some time, which I don't mind as that keeps her needed and very alive in my heart. And she always will be.

    I was fortunate enough to see how much she loved you (and still does of that I am sure), how the world would stop when you called and nothing else mattered, how so much of her life (when I knew her) was timed around that love, to perpetuate it. It was something really incredible to witness, the fire of life burning so close to the surface. The real deal.

    I am so incredibly sorry for your loss. I am sure that the others will say the same and more eloquently but you are deeply cared for by all of us. That also is part of Ellie's legacy. If you need us, ever, we are here for you.

    Thank you with all of my heart for this post. Please know that I am sending you, David and the rest of your family (plus Ellie's extended friends and family) so much Love and Strength,
    With much gratitude,
    h bis

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  52. I just wanted to offer my sincere condolences on your loss. Ellie was an inspiration to me - I always looked forward to her new postings as they usually brought a smile to my face, and sometimes a tear as well. I have my own neurological problems and so I had a tiny inkling of what she was going through, and I strive to be as brave as she seemed to be. I'm just another fan who will miss her spirit and light.

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  53. Thank you so much for sharing. Sending warm wishes to your family.

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  54. Beautifully written and I thought I was done shedding tears but I guess not. I'll always miss your Mom even though I never met her and I know she would be so proud of you reaching out to her imaginary friends this way. I have a daughter your age, and a younger one and a son who is 23 and I know for certain that being a mother was the best thing and the favourite thing of your Mom's life. If you ever need help in any way in Canada (Toronto area) don't hesitate to contact me. Your Mom's imaginary friends are very loyal and of course she wouldn't stand for anything else. Bless you during this time, you were the light of your Mom's life and rightly so, you're a beautiful young lady.
    I bought your Mom's book the second it came out and I'm looking forward to re-reading it soon, when I can do so without tearing up that is. Sending love to you and also a hug. So happy about the Taco Bell, well done on that.

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  55. You wrote a beautiful tribute to your mother. I will miss her. She was a special person and writer. She brought many people happiness through her blog. I know her greatest joy was you.

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  56. Dear Gracie,
    It is so good of you to think of us and write to help us in our grief, while you have enough of your own. Your Mom would be so proud of you for that alone. I disagree, however. You ARE a writer. And you DO have her spirit. Whatever you decide to do with your gifts, with your life, I hope we get a glimpse somehow. It's amazing to me, the influence that one life can have on hundreds of others, thousands. Your Mom did not die in obscurity, but in Glory. She was loved by so many. And I hope you know that we all love you, her most cherished, her treasure, her greatest accomplishment. You don't have to be anything but Gracie now. That's enough. Gracie is more than enough. Love always. Elle

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  57. I am so very sorry to hear of her passing. Thank you for sharing with us the tid bits of her lovely character. I stumbled upon her blog accidentally and was immediately drawn to her humor and sense of style. May she find her peace now and for you to find comfort in knowing that through her words, she shared how much she loved her daughter and her friends and family (even when she was angry at them lol) She was so funny and a wonderful writer. Prayers with you in this time. Carry on with school or she will definitely be haunting you!

    Christie Brawley, Mother, blog reader and Fan of Ellie

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  58. Oh, how glad I am that you gave us a post, dear Gracie. Your mother was amazing and I know that you are, too. She was a one-woman blitz of humor, entertainment, education, and love for you and David. She gave us a lot and we loved her for every post that she did. Stay true to what she taught you and please know that there are people around the world who will be thinking of you and praying for you. Live well and make her proud!

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  59. Gracie, thank you for sharing. I have gone to this site everyday waiting for someone from the family to write. You are a good writer and a courageous one, so please keep this going if you can. You already have a world of love and support at your fingertips.

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  60. Sweet mother and daughter, I'm sorry. Powerful video. You are clever like your mom, and will be forever.

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  61. I'm so sorry to hear about Ellie's death, but I suspected that was why she chose to return to Montecito. And your note about her life and her death was so beautifully written. I hope you were able to express to her the same sentiments when she was alive.

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  62. I googled Princess Diana's death.......... Just after midnight on August 31, 1997.SO, I believe it to be about the same hour!I would imagine THEY will find LOTS to talk about!TWO BEAUTIFUL BLONDE GALS with a ZEST for LIFE and GORGEOUS children.
    AS for DISNEYLAND and the FRENCH DIP I think WE all should MARCH down to DISNEYLAND and call it the ELLIE DIP!
    "JUST A HEAD".........BUT WHAT A HEAD........SMART< WITTY>HONEST.
    I was one of the FORTUNATE ONES who got to meet her.I sat in the PARIS APARTMENT with her for two hours and we chatted away......... I brought a BIG box of MACAROONS, which SHE so honestly TOLD me she HATED!I knew I had to leave, but I DIDNOT WANT TOO!We had SO much to talk about as I had lived in NEWPORT and MALIBU too.I even called the shop once after seeing an AD for CIRCA and I am CERTAIN I SPOKE TO YOUR MOTHER asking about a price!You see I had an antique shop as well..............
    As for STEALING the neighbors HYDRANGEA's THEIR LOSS if they did not know a GOOD CUT FLOWER!!!We are all guilty of something!I send YOU LOADS of STRENGTH MISS GRACE.SHE WAS AMAZING and WE ALL LOVED HER FOR IT!!
    Please keep the BLOG up as I think people will want to RE~VISIT from time to time.I know I will!!
    THANK~YOU for writing this update.........I know it wasNOT easy!If you ever are in NEED of an OPINION this could be YOUR PLATFORM!My guess is you will have ANSWERS for DAYS!!!!!!!!!I think your MOTHER would like that.......YOU KNOW BEST!
    GOD BLESS and TAKE GOOD CARE...........XOXO

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  63. Thank you Grace for the lovely tribute to your Mom. She was an inspiration to me and taught so much through her strength and style. (though I really did think my broccoli Xmas tree was kind of cute). My condolences to your family.

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  64. Well said - you have made your mother proud.

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  65. Thank you for writing this post. It is lovely. Your mother would be so proud. Best to you and your family.

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  66. I am so, so sorry. Your mom was quite a lady. I'll miss her writing.

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  67. I am so saddened by this news but I sensed she was tired and ready...now she is your Angel, free of ALS, able to walk, run & do what she could not on this earth....even though we hadn't the chance to meet I loved her, her smile, her humour, her writing...every time I look at the vase I purchased from her shop I will think of her with a little bit of saddness and a little bit of hope as she allowed my own light to shine...if I ever meet you I will fulfill your mom's request to give you a hug from her....'And So It Is' ....much love...Jeannie

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  68. Dear Gracie,
    Thank you so much for this blog. Your mom was more than amazing! I still cannot believe that I considered her my very good friend, and never did I get to talk to her. Indeed she had the power of communication. She was a lovely beautiful sweet lady. I wish you all the best and I am sure she will take care of you and will be with you every day. Please leave the blog open so that once in a while we can come back to read her blogs, have her valuable advise and just feel closer to our beautiful fried. Finally, I am so glad she got to eat Taco Bell!

    Best always.

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  69. Thank you‼️‼️❤️❤️❤️

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  70. I'm heartbroken. I had no idea. She will be missed by so many. As for you, you were so powerfully and deeply loved, and that is a rare blessing. Wishing you much strength and peace.

    Sherry

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  71. Thank you for posting. Even though I have been following your mom online and I read her book, I was still shocked when I saw RIP in the comments of her last blog posting. She always made it seem like she would be here forever. I checked her blog daily and I was always excited when there was a blog entry. I never met your mom, but she was very special to me. It felt like a best friend spilling their inner truths to me. She was so fun! Peace be with you. You have lots of people cheering you on in life. Also we would all love to hear from you anytime you feel like blogging!! Blessings and Love, Alison Miller

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  72. Dearest Gracie,
    your mother was/is such a special soul. I loved every blog and am hoping it will stay on the internet so that we can always enjoy Ellie. I loved her decorating advice too,and I need it. I went to a vintage shop about a week ago and I felt like she was with me saying 'yes that's great,no what are you thinking'. I know I never met her,but I feel like I knew her and I loved her. I'm sure you are equally amazing as your mother. I wish you the most joyous and wonderful life. Just know there will always be prayers and good vibes being sent from Australia just for you. Much love,Katrina ❤️

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  73. I so loved reading your post and learning more about your mom. Two things I already knew: being your mom was the most important thing in her life and she had many loyal friends. What I will remember most about her is her passion - varied yet focused - and it shined brightly in all of her blog posts. She will always be there to guide you. I wish you and your family peace that comes with time and the comfort of memories. "To live in the hearts we leave behind is not to die." ~Thomas Campbell

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  74. Sincere thanks, Grace. We love Ellie and you and David through her. Wishing you all the best.

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  75. Dear Grace,
    Thank you for posting. Writing about your Mom's passing could not have been easy, but hearing the news from you helps all of us that have loved her from afar. Still, our hearts will be forever heavy. I pray that your memories of your Mom sustain you until you see her again. May God's peace be with you and your family. Love, Laura

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  76. A beautiful soul soars, may she rest in peace.

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  77. Dear Gracie,
    Tell her she is missed.
    Tell her she was loved by a stranger.
    Tell her I would have loved her to be my friend.
    Tell her that she taught us so much.
    Tell her that two of her followers toasted her in a white restaurant in Bevetly Hills.
    Tell her that none of us will ever forget her or her daughter.
    Thank you for sharing her with all of us for so long.
    I am so sorry for your loss...I cannot imagine.
    With love and blessings,
    Candace Culp

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  78. Thank you for the beautiful post. You and your family are in my prayers. Your mom and her love for you has profoundly inspired me for years. May peace find you in these times and ongoing. Sydney in NC (I know she hated anonymous comments! )

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  79. Your mother meant so much to me even though I only knew her thru her blog. I am very sorry for your loss.

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  80. I'm just back from 3 weeks in the South of France, Internet free, and this is the first blog I opened and am so sorry to read that your lovely mum has finally lost her fight. She was so brave and so inspirational. She never failed to make me laugh and make me realise that I have nothing to moan about, but if I wanted to it was OK.

    Your tribute was lovely and I send my condolences and wish long life to you and all your family.

    SusanD

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  81. Dear Gracie,

    What a wonderful tribute to your Mother. I know she hung on for you and you alone! Thank you for sharing so much. It is so true that in spite of Ellie sharing so much with us, she was still a private person. She compressed so much mothering into such a short time; it was her plan to haunt you and to be with you forever! We treasure her memory and you and David, and family are in our thoughts and prayers. The day Ellie passed away I had a foreboding feeling so reached out to her as if everything were all right but I knew it wasn't. Thank you SO MUCH for reopening her book. Blessings to you!

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  82. Rest in Peace dear Eleanor. I loved your blog. We had fun in our emails. What a woman!
    Condolances to the family.

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  83. Gracie, my condolences to you and your family. I am reading this while trying to hold back tears. Your Mother was greatly loved. Now carry her forever in your heart. Please know that her blog family is now your family if you wish, and that we are here for you. May God bless and keep you always! Love you, dear!

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  84. Thank you, Gracie. This was, in fact, a beautiful tribute to your mother and one that she's loving, I'm sure, from her heaven. It was always so easy to see through her bluster how much she loved you. May your happiest memories of her stay with you always.

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  85. This is so beautiful, Grace. Thank you for sharing this. Just as you shined through when your mother wrote about you, your mother shines through in your words.

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  86. Thanks for sharing your Mum with us. Safe travels, she will haunt the heck out of you if you do something she doesn't like! 😌

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  87. Mes sympathies pour la perte de ta maman, elle va me manquer! Quelle femme.... Bon courage!

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  88. Your mother and her writings were truly inspirational; and smart; and funny. I will miss her. She loved you more than anything on this earth. That was clear. It is the best and most important gift she could have left you and one that you will have forever. My deepest regrets for your immeasurable loss.

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  89. Thank you, Gracie, and Godspeed.

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    1. Dear Gracie, thank you for posting. As one of her "imaginary friends" I was so happy to see your posting. I am sorry for your loss. You are so lucky to have been raised by someone so special and that means that you are special too. She worried so much about having to leave you but we reassured her that because she was raised by you, you would be OK and carry on. I was in Paris last week and walking in the Palais Royal. I said a hello to your mom out loud because I know she is there. Then I saw a beautiful young woman with a blond pony tail up high on her head wearing pink ear buds. I thought it might be you. I then again saw her a few blocks away near Le Louvre and almost approached her with "are you Gracie?" Was that you? I send you my love and prayers. Be happy. Love Susan, NYC

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  90. Gracie, this was a lovely tribute and you were kind to share it with her readers. I hope you make her proud by living your life with a good bit of that fierceness that she embodied. You were the thing, the person, that she loved most in all the world. She was so proud of you. I hope that that love and pride sustains you and that her life makes you embrace every moment of your own.

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  91. Thank you for writing a beautiful post. Your Mom touched so many lives, including mine. I am so sorry for your loss. Sending love from Pittsburgh, Robbi

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  92. Dear Gracie,
    The day that your mom passed away I felt such an overwhelming sense of sadness, I didn't know why, I had been through a lot these past months but thought that I had turned a corner, couldn't understand why I couldn't stop crying, the next morning, I found out that Ellie had passed. She was such a fighter, such a bright and strong spirit. I was fortunate to have met Ellie in person when she lived in Paris. The first time that we met, I was sitting in the living room laughing and talking, all of a sudden the phone rang and one of her caregivers brought her the phone, it was you, she transformed at the mere mention of your name, her face lit up and you could sense her spirit lifting with happiness, she adored you, there was nothing more important to her than being your mom. I last saw her in June, I could tell that she had made extraordinary efforts to see me because she knew how important it was to me, a visit to Paris would have not been memorable if I didn't get to see Ellie, it was a brief visit because she was not feeling well, but she managed to be as always the most gracious host and talk about you, she didn't want her illness to hold you back, she wanted you to live your life with the same zest that she did, she wanted everything for you!
    Ellie through it all and behind all the sarcasm and jokes was kind, giving and such a caring person. I lost my best friend and boyfriend this past year, he betrayed me in a very low and callous way, I was devastated because he turned into this person that I was ashamed to have loved, your mom was so supportive, she would email me just to find out how I was, she made my insignificant problems, compared to hers, important and gave me support and value,
    Ellie was my inspiration, I know that it was important to her to leave this world better than she found it and she did. She touched the hearts of hundreds of people throughout the world and United us in our common love for her.
    I will never forget your mom and the impact that she has had in my life and my way of thinking, I will strive to like Ellie live and enjoy each day and leave this world better than I found it, I treasure her book and I will always treasure her. Please stay in touch LMPons@aol.com your mother expected us to look for you in our travels and give you a hug for her, I hope to one day fulfill her wish. With all my love

    Lourdes

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  93. I am so sorry for your loss Grace. Your mom put up a good fight right to the end, she did not want to leave you. Take that strength and go conquer the world. We will all miss her and send our love to you.
    Best wishes.
    Lillian.

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  94. Thank you for sharing Ellie with us.
    Wishing you love .
    Susan

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  95. Thank you Gracie and do try to continue your Mother's blog. You can do it , we all love you and want to hear from you.
    You will keep us young.
    Your Mother was so special, she is greatly missed. Thank you for this post, it was wonderful, looking forward to
    hearing from you again. God Bless

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  96. Gracie, this was lovely. I miss your Mom. Though we never met, hers was often the first voice I 'heard' in the morning when I opened her blog to read along with my coffee. She was such a strong, smart, funny woman. She was kind enough to email me about a year ago when my son was studying in Paris and I wrote and asked her for some suggestions for where to go and what to do. Secretly I harbored a fantasy that he would bump into you, fall madly in love (how could he not?), and we would become mothers-in-law together. You have a beautiful spirit, like hers, and I can hear your own strong, smart, funny voice in your writing. That sense of self will serve you well in your life, as will all the love she gave you -- that love, and the energy of her soul, doesn't disappear; it lives on with you. Thank you for sharing her with all her fans, and for understanding that strange kind of connection we had with her. Taking the time to write to us is a lovely gesture. I wish you well.

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  97. Dear Gracie, thank you so very much for this post. You are an absolute treasure to write this post, at this difficult time. I'm so very sorry for your loss, but your mum is smiling as your first post is awesome.
    If you ever want to come to Australia, please contact me as I wrote in my email to your mum. It is the least I can do to help you out, a small gift in return for your mum's blog posts. Sending you love through the net. Den ( another one of your dear mum's imaginary internet followers) xxx

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  98. So brave and beautiful, your loving tribute to you beloved Mom. She cherished and adored you Gracie, and will continue to do so. Look up at the night sky and she will be shining down at you for always. You are a brave and remarkable young woman, the same age as my daughter, and I send you love and thoughts across the ocean. My birthday is the 31st August and I will always use that day to think of Princess Dianna and now your beloved Mom. Fond love and thoughts Sandy xox

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  99. Gracie, thanks for sharing with us these last words about your remarkable mother. Your mother was one of a kind and so inspirational. She will always be with you. God bless you...

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  100. Today you made me laugh and cry, my Dear Sweet Gracie. I know, I know...you're probably not partial to the word "Sweet" or "My", but as your Mom would say - Too bad! ;) ;) Beside all the beautiful antiques, perfumes and candles you’ve inherited...you got us...thousands of imaginary friends who openly welcome you, whenever the Spirit moves (or haunts) you to write. You’ll always be her Amazing Grace, so never think twice about living up to her high standards...it’ll come naturally…it’s in your genetic DNA.

    Thank you for sharing your precious thoughts and photos with us. I’m sending you a big fat hug – “That is from your Mom.” xox

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  101. It has been such a gift to travel along with this blog. Many,many times I have have laughed so hard I cried while reading about Ellie's experiences with people and places. Ellie's gut wrenchingly honest blog entries about life with ALS were poignant and tinged with humour, it takes a specially gifted person to be able to write the way she did.

    I will miss her humour,style and grace very much.

    And to you Grace, I wish you well as your journey continues. I'm sure many of your Mom's followers will think of you and smile, through your Mom, we got to know you a bit too :-)))

    Regards,
    Nancy

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  102. Gracie don't sell yourself short.your tribute was beautiful. We'll written and thoughtful insightful and funny. Ellie is proud of you and all of us are so appreciative of this "last word".while I know you can't continue the blog because you are young and have so much to do but I hope this blog can continue in Internet land for all of us who may need to "hear" from Ellie from time to time.it's all we have to remember her by. She was a gift and we thank you and David for sharing her with us. God bless you Gracie. Do good things and remember that your mom is always with you. Always with all of us as long as we remember. Xoxo

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  103. Gracie don't sell yourself short.your tribute was beautiful. We'll written and thoughtful insightful and funny. Ellie is proud of you and all of us are so appreciative of this "last word".while I know you can't continue the blog because you are young and have so much to do but I hope this blog can continue in Internet land for all of us who may need to "hear" from Ellie from time to time.it's all we have to remember her by. She was a gift and we thank you and David for sharing her with us. God bless you Gracie. Do good things and remember that your mom is always with you. Always with all of us as long as we remember. Xoxo

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  104. Dear Grace, She named you aptly, you embody her grace and I can tell her sassiness as well. You are her legacy and a damn great one! Thank you for writing this tribute and sharing some of her "secrets" with us. In this crazy world it was a blessing to have your mother's wit and light shine through all the bullshit. I think it is safe to say that we would all love to hear from you when the spirit moves you. Having lost my mother last year, I know the depth of the pain but also the resolve to be how my mother saw me.
    Take good care of you, dear Grace. And again, thank you. Barbara

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  105. A beautiful tribute, Gracie. Thank you. You are your mother's greatest creation, and she will always be with you. xoxoxox

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  106. Thank you, Gracie. I'm so sorry to hear your Mom is gone. I miss her and grieve over her death and I never even knew her! I'm one of the strangers that somehow found her blog and have been inspired over the last year as I watched her live her life so fully while losing her physical capabilities. She was amazing. I wish you a wonderful life.

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  107. Beautiful Gracie, Amazing Grace as we know you through your mom's blog. You ARE TRULY AMAZING! You've got Ellie's genes and traits and talents and strength and wit and heart.
    Thank you for this emotional and so openhearted tribute.
    I'll miss her deeply, her zest for life, brilliance, sense of humour, brightness and strength. She taught how to laugh through tears and enjoy to the very end. Not giving up.
    She bestowed eternal love on you and David, courageous and loving man. Carry on Amazing Gracie and be happy!

    Natalie in Toronto

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  108. For a moment I thought your Mom was still with us when I saw Have Some Decorum in my email this morning. I realize now that she is, through you dear Grace. Thank you for your sweet post. Sending you and your family love and strength.

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  109. Ellie will be forever in my heart. I know that she has enlivened the world with her joy, love and passion leaving us all enriched and inspired to live our truest lives. Thank you for this post and for sharing your grief, as the tears trickle down my cheeks. I am so thankful that she made it home and that you and David had the courage and strength to make that voyage with her. You will also live in my heart. Love and prayers, Mary

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  110. Thank you, Gracie. Your post was beautifully written and a wonderful tribute to your Mom. I will miss her, but have four herbiers from her shop, so will think of her often. xxoo Jan

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  111. Dear Gracie,
    My only regret in finding your mother's blog was that I did not find it sooner. I have enjoyed reading it and going back and reading older entries. What a force this amazing woman was, and I know you feel lucky to have called her "mom". I'm so sorry for your loss, but in awe for the time you had with this wonderful human being. Blessings to you and your family.

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  112. Gracie, thank you for writing this beautiful tribute. You were her pride and joy, the love of her life. Peace and blessings to you.

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  113. Beautifully written Grace. Thank you for sharing with all of us. Your mother will be missed.

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  114. Your post is the perfect tribute for your mother. It is quite evident why she referred to you as amazing Grace.
    Thank you for sharing your stories and thoughts, they are so meaningful and appreciated.

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  115. So many strangers out here in the universe with the same thoughts about your mother. Ellie was loved so much for her brutal honesty. We all were in awe of her courage and zest for life in spite of this devastating illness. May she rest in peace. I hope you know that as her daughter all of us strangers are still here for you with the same love. Live the good life with peace and joy in your heart because that is where your mother is now. Thank you for sharing and may God be with you.

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  116. What a moving surprise Gracie! You had me crying instantly. That song touches me in a way that's hard to describe and the first time I saw Damien's video left me breathless, it reached my soul and ripped me into pieces.... When I saw her book title, I KNEW. I felt her pain and her joy.
    We loved her be caused we connected with her, there was real transference of feelings and ideas, we had an ongoing conversation that lasted for years where no bullshitting was aloud and no time waisted.
    I didn't want her to hold on, I was just in shock that she left, I know she was tired and all of you were. She deserved better and only stayed here as long as she did for you, to finish her book, to go back home and to do as much she could to leave you as many memories as possible. Your voice is so much like hers, there must be so much of her in you... She is delighted about that, I can see it!
    Thank you for this, now go and spread your wings, that's what she wanted, that's why she did all she did, you were her " First, her last, her everything!
    Sending you love and peace Gracie xx

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  117. A beautiful and moving tribute, dear Grace. Heartfelt condolences, ta maman will be sorely missed.

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  118. Gracie, you indeed inherited your mothers gift for honest, humorous, fearless writing. She would be proud of this post, indeed I bet she is. So sorry to hear of your loss.

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  119. Sending you love and light, Gracie. Thank you for your beautiful tribute--and for taking the time to share it. Your mom will always be with you.

    Ellie was my classmate at Marymount and I'll always remember her for her beautiful honesty and cheeky humor--she set the bar high for us all! Big hugs for you. xoxo

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  120. This is a wonderful tribute to your sassy, inspirational and funny mother. I will so miss her way of looking at the world. In this very well written post, you did her memory justice by capturing her very essence. Thank you so much for sharing this with us at this very difficult time. I know how much she loved you...and continues to. Love and blessings,
    Jennifer

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  121. Thank you Gracie for posting this. Lovely. I'll pray for you, David and Ellie's family to find comfort. Your Mom was such a beautiful person. There's an ''imaginary'' force out here in the world lifting you all up. XXOO

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  122. Every post from Have Some Decorum lit up my inbox. I've prayed for Ellie and I pray for you, David, and your loved ones. I'm amazed at the grief I'm experiencing--I was only a "fake" friend. Your mom's unquenching light will continue. I'll keep a reality show vigil in her memory.

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  123. thank you, gracie. your mother gave us another gift...you. and you are right...your mom will always be with you..."haunting you", as you say. my sorrow at the loss of her in your life and in all our lives. she was a wonder...and the fruit certainly did not fall far from the tree. that is to say, you are so much like her, but unique and all your own...and you should be so proud. she was ever so proud of you. her best work.

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  124. My condolences, Gracie. The post is a beautiful tribute to your mother, and to a woman we grew to know and love. You are everything your mother said you are, and what a delight. Thank you for sharing, and if there is ANYthing you need or want, advice, care package, ANYthing, seriously, please remember that this is a place for you to make a request and I know there are many who will gladly swoop in like a mother hen. It would be an honor, in loving memory of your mother, to help in any way we can. Peace to you and your family. xoxo ~Nicole

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  125. So sorry for the loss of such a shining star. What a beautiful soul - she will be ever close beside you as I'm sure you will feel in the time to come. You're a chip off the old block for sure. She will be around you forever and I don't think that Ellie will let something as small as death, stop her protecting you and from being at your side. She will be holding up the sky for you. Look after yourself.

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  126. Bless you Gracie! Thank you for sharing your mother with us. I am sorry for your loss. My sincere condolences to you and your family and friends.

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  127. You know, Gracie, your mother is what I like to call a Lantern Bearer. Although her legs could not move and her arms could not hold, her indomitable spirit, her vivid memories and imagination, her irreverent high speed intellect spread a bright light before us which beckoned for us to follow and showed us the way forward, especially in our own darkest hours. Oh, how she will be missed! I agree with others who suggested that you leave this site on the Internet for others to discover so they may draw strength, sustenance and a deep belly laugh from your mother's take on, well, EVERYTHING! The greatest tribute you could give your mother is to live your life boldly, to follow your dreams, shape your destiny and live as though the world is your oyster. Hope to hear from you now and then on this blog because you too are loved by all these "strangers" who fell in love with your mother and only wish the very best for you and David and your family. May you all find comfort in the many happy, crazy, tender memories of your mother. Ellie's spirit has influenced all of us who gladly joined her on this wild roller coaster of a ride and we are all the better for it.

    With love from Baltimore, MD,

    Joanna

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  128. Gracie,
    Bon Courage to you and your family.Always loved some Ellie, always. The first post I ever read was the post about you, your mother and David going through the streets of Paris trying to find a proper Christmas Tree, I was laughing so hard and thinking to myself, who is this Ellie?? We were introduced by a mutual friend who had ALS. So we all became "Imaginary Friends" and when I would go to her house and help out, everyone talked about Ellie, just as though she would be coming by at any moment.
    Gracie, thank you for giving all your Mother's imaginary friends a lovely and very well written tribute and allowing us to hear your voice. May the peace of the Lord be with you and yours evermore.
    You dear girl, made your Mother's life so much more and she made your life so much more. Go live and love. Elaine

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  129. Thank you, Gracie, for this. Have a beautiful life. It will make your mother so happy.

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  130. My sincere and deepest sympathy to you, sweet Gracie. Your Mom was a gem...one of a kind and I will miss her greatly. Thank you for this beautiful post...you were the world to your extraordinary Mom. Much love and peace, Gina from PA

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  131. Gracie, I can only say Thank You, as my tears flow. Without ever meeting your Mother in person, I will still always, always remember her as someone beautiful and full of life, someone I believe I knew, without the honor of meeting her. My deepest sympathy to you, David and to all of your family.

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  132. Gracie, there are no words to ease the pain of losing a parent. All I can say is that your mother touched so many lives that we too are mourning with you. You are an excellent, I hope you continue to post. May you find comfort in knowing your mother now lives in so many of her cyberfamily. God bless you, sweet Grace.

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  133. What a legacy of faith, hope and love your mom left you. Reading these comments says it all about your mom. I so wish i knew your mom as a friend. I am grateful for her sharing so much of her life through her blogs. Your days ahead will be full of grief and tears but will turn into sweet memory tears and a joy that warms your heart, when you think of your mom. That kind of mother's love never leaves you. An earthly gift for you.

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  134. Beautiful Grace, thank you for that loving gesture. I echo everyones feelings, we loved your Mom and you as part of her. Carry all that with you. Cheryl

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  135. Gracie,
    Thank you for sharing about your mother. I have loved reading her blog for several years now and loved her candor, humor, and insistence on beauty. I cried when I found out. My prayers are with you and your family. She left a pretty amazing legacy! I would love for you to start blogging about your adventures as well, you have a similar voice to her!

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  136. White pumpkins it is, then.

    And thank you.

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  137. I've shed yet another tear reading this Gracie. What a lovely surprise -- a heartfelt tribute to your mother, I loved it. I'm sorry i never had the chance to meet her in person but feel so lucky to have come across her blog, truly inspirational and full of incredibly funny musings. I will never forget her. She was a very special lady - keep the spirit alive.
    God bless you and take care.

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  138. Thank you for your lovely and heartfelt post. I'm so sorry for your loss. I think about Ellie often. I learned so much from her blog, and enjoyed her spirited writing. Yes, please keep the blog available to us. Take care Gracie.

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  139. You have made your mother proud.
    What a legacy...
    Blessings and light will surely follow you all your life.
    May your dear mother rest in Peace.

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  140. Gracie, my deepest condolences to you. You were so very lucky to have had such a special mom, and although she left you much too soon, the life lessons she taught you, and her intense love for you will bring you comfort and guidance throughout your life. You have had much grief for one so young but I feel confident, "knowing" Ellie as I did, that she gave you the tools to be as strong a woman as she was. Thank you for your post; thousands of us were waiting to hear. I do hope you leave the blog open so that we can revisit Ellie and continue to be inspired by her. I have her book, as well as the holiday ones. If ever we should meet, I'll give you a big hug from your mom. Much love and wishes for a wonderful life.

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  141. Dear Gracie, I am so deeply sorry for your loss. Thank you for posting, you write beautifully (I am only a foreign speaker but I have learned to love reading English from your mother). It would be great to read from you from time to time. Maybe...who knows. We will all be missing Ellie so so much. It was such a pleasure to read the things she shared, really one of a kind. Extraordinary woman. Lots of love from Germany and all the best to you, Vanessa

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  142. I think Ellie wa right. Mother is best to remember as. She loved you fiercely and with everything she had. I worked at The French Market at Disneyland and it is still my favorite place. Some day you will take your children, and she will be there in the skylights. Meanwhile, until then, she will be watching over you and sending you signals as only a mother can. As the months go on, be gentle with yourself on the tough days. Finish school and do something amazing! Godspeed Grace. Sending love.

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  143. You are so loved, Gracie, by all of us.
    Sending you much love and light from SB to Paris.
    xoxo
    paula

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  144. Gracie, aren't you so, so grateful that she, and no one else in the whole world, was your mother? Try to thank God every day for that very special gift.
    Love,
    Hattee Christian
    P.S. Daughters never lose their mothers. Mine has been gone for 24 years and I still talk like her, act like her and hear her in my head every day.

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  145. Dear Gracie,

    As long as I have been reading your moms blog I knew two thing, you were the most important thing in here life and that she was a force to be reckoned with. Your mom was one of a kind and we are all so blessed that she chose to blog and that she shared her with and wisdom with us.

    I know that you will be surrounded by the love of your family and friends but I also believe that your mom is going o follow along beside you on your journey through life.

    God bless you and keep you safe. Good luck with your last year of school and the future. So very sorry for the loss of your mom.

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  146. Grace you are your mother's greatest legacy. You shared your mother with so many of us for years. Still you chose to share more of her during your own mourning. I wish you peace, love, memories, joy and of course fun as you travel through life. Thank you for writing to all of us. May you and your family find peace and comfort in your memories. Thank you.

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  147. Grace,

    Thank you for sharing your beautiful thoughts with us. Your mom was an amazing person, you can hear her in you. I wish you peace, be gentle with yourself - the earth seems to shift a bit when we experience such a great loss when we are young. You will honor her forever. She would want you to go out and live your life the way you choose, and carry her forever in your heart. You have her strength, to be able to reach out to us so quickly. Let us know, if there is anything we can do.

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  148. hello darling Gracie, yes indeed, we followed her daily for a very long time ~ laughing in stitches, and i remember
    when you snuck off to Calif and she didn't know....boy did we have comments there.....we all forgave you as we
    have all done this too I think, how our mothers survived is a wonder.....I have thought of you everyday since she moved
    on.....it is good to hear from you sweetheart......yes you had a very funny mama, the apple does not fall far from the tree Gracie....and she supported me in emails during some of my health issue scares...what a GAL that ELLIE.....she gave me great JOY all the way to Florida! XOXO suzanne

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  149. Just look at all the love for your mom, and for you that is represented here. How beautiful is that? Thank you Gracie for this wonderful tribute to your mom. She was a force to be reckoned with, and I'll just bet that you are too! My sincere condolences for you, your family and all those who loved your mom. :)

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  150. Thank your for your graciousness in writing this post for all your mom's readers. I add my voice to the others who find you a very good writer with a strong voice. We would love to hear from you again. I send you my deepest sympathies, and love and hugs on your journey forward.

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  151. Oh Gracie. My heart aches for you. What a beautiful tribute to an incredible woman, mother, sister, daughter,wife, and friend. She made us all laugh, especially when there was so much to be sad about. I loved her blog and learned so much. Your mom was one of a kind and she will be forever remembered for so many things. She was honest, brave, witty, creative, and loving. Thanks for sharing your Mom.

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  152. Thank you for taking the time to write this beautiful post. Sincerest condolences.
    Take care.
    Suz from Vancouver

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  153. I only recently have been following her blog. I share that I had been extremely and was near death. By the grace of God Oschner Foundation, New Orleans, LA USA took me on as a patient and I am as healthy as I will every be. Life is precious so was the short time I read your mother's blog. May she rest and peace and be remembered by all that knew whether a lifetime or a moment. Thanks for sharing this sad news.

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  154. Grace, your mom's passing has left a huge hole in many of our hearts. She loved you unconditionally and that is a gift from God. We will miss her humor, intellect, compassion, her strength and her love of family and friends. She is whole now and lives within your heart so you will never be without her. Please know you and David are in my thoughts and prayers and I pray for comfort and wonderful memories to sustain you. love, one of your mom's imaginary friends.....

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  155. Grace, all of us could feel you in the words your Mom wrote in nearly every single one of her blogs. I hope you take comfort in the memories she recorded, both publically and privately. She IS proud of you!

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  156. Gracie, you are just as funny as your mother! Thank you for reaching out to her fans.

    I'm sad that I will never hear the story of why she hated France. I just know there's a hilarious story involved. But I'm happy that she's finally free. Such conflict of emotions over the shock of her death. Somehow, I thought we'd know the time had come.

    There is no question that she will be around you and David frequently. The love is too strong.

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  157. Condolences to you and your family. Your Mum will be sadly missed by all her "blog family"
    Take care xxx

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  158. Gracie, Your blog of finality was a cold-shower shock. Somehow I had the pollyanna view that your mother would thrill and entertain us for years to come (now that she was back in her lovely CA).
    My mother, who died five years ago, will always "haunt" me. Every time I see something in an antique shop she would love, I want to call her to describe it. Every behavior she would not approve of, by me or her grandson, I hear her admonishing us!
    I can only imagine what you learned from such a witty, irreverent, fun-loving and loving mom. I'm sure she taught you great things just by her presence and perseverance. I know she left you much to draw upon in your life ahead.

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  159. No one loves you like your Mama! I lost mine in January. You had a special one.

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  160. Thank you for letting us know. May you always feel her presence.

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  161. Thank you Gracie! I will never forget your mother...her comments always touched me.

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  162. I loved her so much. Will miss reading her posts.

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  163. Well, I generally check here, now and then, just hoping there might be a post...something. So happy to hear from Ellie's most precious "Brat". She loved you so fiercely. You say you aren't a very good writer, but you've done a bang-up job writing about what you know best: Mom/family stuff.

    Thank you so much for this! (I know, it' so weird visiting here, isn't it, but I've given up caring about that.) She is missed, and that's that.

    Much love and a hug too from one of your Mother's imaginary friends.

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  164. Thank you, Gracie. I hear your mother's voice and humor in your writing. Your tribute to her was lovely. Know in your heart that she will always be close by. Of course, she's 'haunting' you, but really as your guardian angel.
    My condolences to you, David and her family. The loss of Ellie was felt my many, and we share your grief and tears.
    Take care.
    Joanne Gibbs

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  165. Dear Grace,

    Sending hugs and prayers to you and your whole family. Your mom was a special light and spark in this world. That life goes with you! Peace and comfort to you Grace.

    Danielle

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  166. Dearest Gracie there is nothing I can say that has not already been so beautifully expressed by all of those who have already posted here, so I won't even try. I do believe, however, that we need to create a bumper sticker that reads 'WHAT WOULD ELLIE DO?" I say this because whenever I'm having a pity party for myself over some completely inane and unimportant moment/scenario, I think of your mom and how she would handle it. Doing this really puts things in perspective for me, and resets my attitude (and all of us 'followers' would then recognize each other when we saw the stickers, and could share a moment for your mom). And all proceeds, of course, would go to ALS research. Stay strong dear girl and yes, with a spirit such as your mom had, she will be haunting you. XO

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  167. Beautiful tribute Gracie! She will be missed in the blog world and my world!

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  168. Thank you Gracie....your Mother's blog and her insight has helped me be a better enlightened person. xoxo

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  169. Gracie,

    I think it has all been said above. Your Mom's blog was sort of like reading a good book or watching an amazing movie. You came to know the so well described characters, and you felt such loss at the end. You wanted the story to go on forever. So sorry for your family Gracie....may your fun and many memories carry you through. janey

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  170. Thank you, Gracie. And don't sell yourself short on not being a writer...this is beautiful. A remarkable daughter with a remarkable mother. Wishing you much love and happiness on your adventures through this life.

    Jennifer - Princeton, NJ

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  171. Grace, your Mother was so inspiring to me. She gave me strength to fight my own disease.... Thank you for writing this beautiful blog post. It is so fitting and yes, you are a very good writer!
    Your Mother will always be with you!
    Take care, Gracie. God bless you.
    Love, Lily

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  172. Grace, your Mother was so inspiring to me. She gave me strength to fight my own disease.... Thank you for writing this beautiful blog post. It is so fitting and yes, you are a very good writer!
    Your Mother will always be with you!
    Take care, Gracie. God bless you.
    Love, Lily

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  173. Oh Dearest Ellie: I miss your voice...😥

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  174. Your mother inspired everyone. Her humor was one of a kind. She is much loved by everyone that she crossed paths with (online or in person) She was unique, in every good way. She will be greatly missed. That said, at times, I think I feel her presence. She is at peace now. Grace, you are your mother's daughter and I see many similarities. Your study of art history shows a big similarity and common interest. Wishing you health and happiness in all that you do. Like your mother, I sense that you can do anything that you choose. You have a bright future. And, this is exactly what your mother wants for you. My thoughts are with you. Susan

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  175. Dearest Gracie, my deepest sympathy on the loss of your mother. Thank you for telling us so eloquently of her passing. We are all holding you in our hearts during this difficult time. If the urge ever strikes, we would love to hear from you.
    xo

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  176. It is so kind of you to write and give us these last glimpses of Ellie, a friend beloved by thousands of strangers. I pray you will find your mom in a million places--from the gilt of an antique frame to the fresh cut scent of pine at Christmastime to the silky salty queso of Taco Bell to the smiles of your future children. May God's peace comfort and strengthen you always.

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  177. Gracie, I am so sorry for your loss.
    Although I did not know your mother, I feel that I have lost a dear friend.
    She was probably one of the most courageous women that I grew to know and admire. I loved her wicked sense of humor.
    Please continue to write as I believe you have her gift.
    God speed
    Sydney in Beverly Hills

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  178. I don't understand how I can miss someone I never met. I came late to this blog, but once I started following, it lit up my day to see an email telling me another one had been posted. Such a vibrant, passionate soul shone through the writing and I adored the fact that reading it was like sitting with a glass of wine, listening to a friend blasting the world. If I feel like that, I can't imagine what you, Grace, and the rest of her family, are feeling. Such a loss. Such memories to carry you through the grief. Such pride to have had such a mother, and to have known such a woman.

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  179. Grace,
    What a good daughter you are! Your Mom loved you more than you can comprehend. Your tribute to her was just perfect! You are funny, a fantastic writer and a beautiful young lady.
    May the beautiful memories of your funny, smart, sassy Mom give you comfort and may God give you strength to get through these sad days. Your Mom will be missed but clearly you will keep her love & memory alive! ❤️

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  180. Thank you for your amazing post and for sharing some wonderful thoughts and memories of your mother. I am truly sorry for your loss and wish you all the best.

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  181. Thank you for writing this, Gracie. It was a perfect tribute--done in your own style which echoes her's the way a daughter's hair and eyes and mannerisms remind someone of her mother whilst still being her own. I don't know you--(my dad knows your grandmother in palm springs which is how he found out about this blog and told me)--and I don't know how you are feeling (sad, strong, relieved, depressed, abandoned, LOVED?) But, I think of you often and wonder how you are doing. So, all I can do is pray for you and hope all the best for you. Your mom taught me a lot by being so candid about her relationship with you. I'm sure she wasn't the perfect mother in the classic sense, (no one is), but she sure taught me a lot about loving fiercely and prioritizing her relationship with you. Thanks for sharing her with all of us. Much love from Nashville. --Elisabeth

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  182. Your mother was a true inspiration. Thank you for continuing to sell her book, I've been pinching pennies to save up to get a copy.We will truely miss her and her unique way of worrying .My heart goes out to you and your family.

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  183. Thank you for sharing this lovely post with us, Gracie. Your mother was tough and strong and I'm sure you are too. I can't imagine how hard all this has been and continues to be for you. Just know that many thoughts and prayers are with you. And of course, your mother will never truly leave you. Bon courage.

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  184. Thank you Gracie for sharing a little more insight about your Mom. She was so proud of you and knew that being a Mom was the most important job she ever had. Not sure about how you feel about religion but when someone close to you dies, I always felt comforted that there was an angel up there on my side. My heart goes out to you, David and all her many fans as well as her family. Thank you again for sharing your Mom with us. My life will be a bit better because of reading her book, blog and watching her go through this horrible disease. I am sorry for your loss.

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  185. Bless her she will be missed by us all...

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  186. Gracie----I am sorry for your loss. I enjoyed reading your Mom's blog. She will be missed!

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  187. Beatiful post to your mom. She so loved you and still does.

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  188. Dear,dear Gracie, what a lovely post that was about your Mother. You are like her....you tried to make it easier for us to know of her death. I am so glad I followed her and laughed and felt her grief and frustration, as she experienced it and wrote of it so well. You are so special that we will never forget you and your Mom. Thank you for writing me the note for her. I have saved it so I never forget.

    Love to you in this difficult time, Kathleen

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  189. Ellie you are always here helping us. I think of you every day.

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  190. Hi darling Grace, I have thought about you since I met your mama ! When mine passed I was in my master's program, there was so much to do, I have a sibling that wanted the entire trust written to both of us. He slammed me into a lawsuit for 4 years on top of finding the time to process mom passing. I had to drop out. I hope you continue your school, if you drop out to heal, please continue, noone can take away that piece of paper. I did not and simply got another job and a 4 year lawsuit that took up the majority of my time to run. Please keep going as you can, we all know how proud and the love she had for her darling Grace. So adorable you are Grace, just like your mama, funny, kind & compassionate. She was a no nonsense gal, I like that too, with a great froundation of fortitude, I know you are like this too! My love to you from across the pond in Florida. You get over here my home is yours. It's like paradise here it is so gorgeous! In time darling ~ I think of my mama everyday and it has now been 16 years & counting. My love to David, her bunny, the officer and gentleman too! What a special soul I highly respect ~ XOXO

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  191. Bless your heart, your mum would be proud of you. Beautifully written, thinking of you xxxx

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  192. Dear Grace, My prayer for you and your loved ones is for peace and comfort and to have much joy in your lives. I am very grateful for your mother's blog as she reminded many of us to be thankful, humble, loving, and to celebrate the joys in life both big and small. She also reminded us that without a sense of humor, life will not only be dull, but also all the more difficult. I pray you have a beautiful, fulfilling life, and always carry the limitless, unending love your mother has for you in your heart. Sincerely, Noelle

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