What a send off!  Chris had some definite ideas about the type of memorial party that she wanted and, thanks to all of you, she got it.  The appies were great, there were Bundt cakes in abundance and Rick had bad pop songs from the 80s and 90s going all of the time.  Perfect, exactly what she had requested and planned for.
I am so grateful for all of the heartwarming stories that I heard about Chris, they will give me a lot of comfort in the days to come.  While we all miss her terribly, it was comforting to get together, share a few stories and laughs, and enjoy the things that Chris made so special.  Julie and Deb were outstanding as they reminisced about growing up with Chris and some of the fun and silly things that they did with her.

I sat back with Luc and watched as a lot of people did a lot of work to make this day for Chris a success:
Thanks to Paul, who did a lot of heavy lifting and wore a fabulous (or not) holiday sweater in honor of Chris.  By the end of the day he was referred to as "The Sweater Dude".
Thanks to Bethany, who helped us set up and was able to identify some of the animals that Chris had pictures of.  There were so many! Plus, she kept Deb from putting fairy lights on everything.
Thanks to Kym, who helped make sure the appies were prepared and set up.  That is the last time I can actually type the word appie without cramping up.
Thanks to Leslie, who took charge of me and made sure I was on time and with all of the stuff I wanted to bring. Luc appreciated you bringing him to the party for the last half hour!
Thanks to Rick, who is still probably hearing the phrase "Can you go pick this up?".  All of your help and support is appreciated.
Thanks to Julie, for everything.  You were a rock for Chris and you were a rock for me as well.  Love the holiday sweaters and the smiles that they brought.  You helped pull this event together and make it special for Chris and all of us.
And thanks to Deb, for all that you did and all that you are.  Chris adored her older sister and loved you very much.  I can't thank you enough for everything that you did for her, and for me.  We both appreciate it very much.

The support for Second Hand Hounds and The NC Little Hopsice was overwhelming.  Thanks for all of your generosity and we will be proud to pass on the contributions that were made in her name.

The spirit of Chris was with us yesterday and it helped to ease the pain of her loss.  Thank you again for making her day so special, it brings tears to my eyes just thinking about the love that was shown for her.  She is smiling and saying "Well Done" to all of us.