VickieNam 16th October 2007

Hera, Alex, Chris, and Dad Hong, I, along with many others, share your love and appreciation for your mom, and through the years, I have never forgotten her. I remember her presence; how her voice could go, in an instant, from commanding to carefree, and how her joy warmed us through laughter. Her eyes laughed the loudest as they glittered and danced daintily. Mom Hong gave generously. She gave her time, her affection, her delicious baked goods (zucchini bread!), and she shared her God-given gifts with our community. One memory stands out for me. I'll never forget the moment before and after I went out on stage to perform a solo dance in high school. I remember that I had come down with the flu and was also feverish with stage fright. "Oh my god, I can't do this... I've forgotten everyhing!" I stammered this to her as the music started. She answered, simply, "What?? You won't forget [the dance]. Hey, you practiced hard, so just go do it!" In other words, quit worrying and do what you have to do! Well, Mom Hong knew exactly how to jerk you into the present, and to enjoy the moment... I miss that quality dearly. After the performance, I stepped off stage where she hugged me tightly, laughing. "See? You did great! Everyone is proud of you." I felt like I was on top of the world. Thanks, Hera, for this lovely photo montage and 'memory book.' I relish such memories of Mom Hong. We love her, and we love you too. xoxo, Vickie