In October an amazing lady I was lucky enough to call my friend died.  Toni Rittmaster's life was very full, but her time on earth was far too short.  I met her the first time at Mountain House when I was hosting a Rocky Mountain Team Survivor hike.  This vibrant lady was in the midst of chemo but was still up enjoying nature.  

Toni had a huge personality.  She was "brave" enough to organize a trip for 13 of us to Africa.  (How she did this I have NO idea!!).  A couple of years back she had a serious recurrence with cancer, and was expected to die.  Toni, being Toni, decided that she just wasn't ready and was declared disease free, much to the shock of her doctors after a very risky surgery.  

All was well until early September.  Toni and I had lunch, she then went off to a dance workshop with her daughter-in-law, followed by a follow up at a big NY hospital.   The cancer was back, and it was everywhere.  6 weeks after lunch with my friend I had the honor of visiting her in Hospice.  Toni, Bev and I talked about Africa, and we watched her enjoy some chocolate ice cream. We held hands and just enjoyed being together. Less than 24 hours later she was gone.  

Last Friday was Toni's birthday.  Her loving husband invited a group of us to their home for a get together, in honor of Toni's life and birthday.  It was a very touching gathering.  By some force we all ended up in a circle, toasting Toni, and sharing stories.  Eliza, her very old dog, spent time in the middle of the circle.   We all knew for certain that Toni was with us.   

I haven't blogged about this because I really didn't think my words would do justice in honoring her spirit.  Today I received a "recipe" written by Bev which I think hit the nail on the head..... Toni, you are much loved and missed.  (Make sure and see a picture of Toni in Africa - it's her, full of life, as I will remember her.)

Recipe for Remembering Toni

Start with one awesome woman

Add 2 cups of her strength and courage

½ cup each of her flair and vitality

¼ cup of her humor and

Stir vigorously

In a separate bowl combine I cup each

Of her zing and zest and beat until soft

Sift in enough of her generosity and

Thoughtfulness to make 1 cup

With an electric mixer beat until soft peaks form

Whisk together 1 doting husband

1 little dog named eliza and

a generous helping of friends with numerous fond memories

Mix altogether,  add more wine and champagne if necessary

pour into a life size pan and bake on high for 2 ½ hours

from 5 – 7:30 p m  preferably on jan 16^th

let cool  before removing  from pan

drain off any remaining tears and cut into friendship size pieces 

garnish with lots of love and laughter and serve immediately

this recipe will last indefinitely if left uncovered

and nibbled on at regular intervals throughout the year

***Recipe written by Bev Melius***