A couple of years ago, I volunteered to lead an afternoon book club at the South End Library. Deciding to throw caution to the winds, I picked 50 Shades of Grey, the most popular and controversial book at the time. Connie immediately signed up and mentioned that it should be quite the conversation and could hardly wait. I am still not sure if people were embarrassed or appalled by my selection but Connie and I were the only ones who were brave enough to show up! Well, that was one of the most interesting and funny hours of my life. It was then that Connie and I really became friends and I will always appreciate and never forget her encouragement and her faith in me, even when times were tough......I also remember how much Connie loved dogs. She was always offering to dogsit for me and finally, last Christmas, my Goldie Mia, had the pleasure of sharing Christmas with Connie and her son. My puppy is 7 and has never been left with anyone else but she had a blast with Connie and Jon, not missing me at all. I remember Connie joking that she wished all her house guests were as well behaved as Mia! Connie, we miss you.