A song used in Spanish culture to say farewell. One of mom's and Grandma's favorites. My sister is named after the singer. Rocio Durcal. Last line... Sooner or later ... We'll be together so we can keep on LOVING ONE ANOTHER!

Mom used to sing "Peace in the Valley" with our aunts. They harmonized so beautifully.

There is a bright new star in sky and it’s Mom, watching over us just like she said she would. Rosemary Barker, my Mom, was my best friend, my biggest fan, and my port in any storm. The best qualities in me I got from her, although I could never be close to being the kind and generous person she was. But I’ll try, I’ll try harder to fill those shoes. She fought fiercely to be here for us, for almost 95 years, thru pain and hardships. She didn’t want to let go because we needed her. It’s o.k. Mom, to rest now. We’ll be o.k. because you will always be with us.

Everyone you met loved you. You filled the room. People just naturally gravitated towards you. You made babies smile. You could get hugs from the most rebellious and hard to reach teenager. Waiters in restaurants fought to get your table - you were always polite, friendly, a generous tipper but most of all you made everyone feel that wherever they came from, no matter what they had, or their history - they were more than enough for you. You wanted to know their story and shared yours.

You always wanted to win the lottery. But not for you - you always said you were satisfied with what you had. You ticked off all the people you would help if you won the lottery - family, friends, neighbors. I didn't need the lottery because I already won. I won the lottery of the best Mom anyone could ever ask for.

Am I hurting? Yes I miss you! So many times something happens and I think oh, I'll tell Mom about this. But although your body is not here, I might tell you things anyway. You'll listen, you'll hear, and you'll understand. Because your spirit will never leave me.
Mom, have fun with the angels. I bet you can dance now, hear music and laugh. And sometimes I close my eyes and see you dance, hear your laugh, and see you smile. And that will get me through.