My friend Susan passed away yesterday. Many of us got to know her through Flickr. Her spirit and talent were pretty darned amazing.
I first met Susan in person when I was living in the east San Francisco bay. We connected over the fact that she'd been a resident of the area. Before we knew each other, however, she'd moved to SoCal. Anyway, she was in the bay area for a job I think and we met for lunch and had a great visit. Over the years we'd remained on each others' radar first through Flickr and then FB/IG. Just around the time of the pandemic she and her husband John moved to Richmond. I was happy to give her my views of the area and delighted when they chose this as their next residence. We only met up a few times here, but I was impressed at the network she'd created through the dog park! I think she knew more people than me.
I didn't get over to the dog park as often as I intended. But a month or so ago as I was driving past I had the impulse to stop and see if she was there. Her attendance at the park by then was hit or miss, depending on how she was feeling. To my surprise and joy she was indeed at Barker Field. She told me she didn't usually go at that time, but just happened to be there this day. We shared a bit of catching up, but also a couple of really good hugs. She was so genuinely happy to see me, even though Avery wasn't along, and I was glad to have found her!
And speaking of Avery, Susan kind of loved her (but she kind of loved all dogs). She said she reminded her of, Gracie I think it was? Upon showing me Gracie's picture, I had to agree Avery bore a striking resemblance.
It was rather incredible to read Susan's posts as she went through the process of her illness. She was always eloquent and honest, and often funny as hell. She was an amazing woman and her memory will live on. She will be missed.
Susan took these pictures of Avery one time when she dog sat for me...
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