My dearest Auntie Sally. I don't know what to say or where to start; all I know is that I wouldn't be this version of me, without her. Every memory I have of her is happy, funny and wonderful. She always made me smile, and picked out the most wonderful birthday cards. I share the passion for Shakespeare she had, and also find myself correcting people's grammar! I have a constellation of memories, perfect little snippets, and I would like to share them. Whenever lunch was over and food was still on the table, she used to cut little pieces of cheese from the corner of the block and eat them, and she used to smile at me and shrug her shoulders, I don't know why that's stuck with me, but it has. She told my brother he couldn't stuff an entire chocolate muffin in his mouth at once, she always told her friends about me being a dancer, and she always put mini Christmas crackers on her Christmas tree. Once she showed me old photographs of herself, and together we marvelled at how alike we look, despite the fact there is no relation by blood, but by marriage. My Auntie Sally. I loved her. More than words could explain. She helped me with my English exams, and in one of them I wrote about her, and she was touched. She encouraged me with my acting, especially with Shakespeare, she lent me her copy of Othello for my show, I still have it. She gave me her rough guide to Shakespeare too. She passed on her love of language and stories and grammar to me. She was such a warm person; at family gatherings she was full of energy and love, I don't recall ever seeing her upset really. She was so witty, intelligent, elegant and absolutely marvellous. I can see her clearly if I close my eyes, she is standing in the kitchen or in the study, talking to me about anything and everything: art, flowers, poetry, books, cooking. I loved her. With all my heart. I never wanted to imagine life without her, she was incredibly brave and strong, and I admire her, so much. I loved her and will continue to do so, always. With love, Elsie.