Thursday, April 9

My dear sweet Karen



I lost my very special friend, Karen Malandra this morning to that ugly beast, cancer. I know this isn't the kind of post people expect to see, but Karen was an artist/printmaker in her own right who pushed me to follow my dreams. Today I'd like to share some of her work. These are both cards she sent to me along the way. The second one she sent when I was going through a very difficult time. In one sense today, the words seem ironic and false, but in another they make absolute sense to those of us still here. Be at peace now Karen! And the rest of you, don't forget to live your day!

7 comments:

Jan said...

I'm so sorry for your loss. May your memories comfort you...

Her second card almost seems to suggest she was far ahead of the rest of the world in her perspective...

Sam Simpson said...

I'm sorry too. I worked with Karen and liked her and I am grateful to you for putting up this nice tribute to her on this awful day.

Sara Smedley said...

Thank you both for your sweet comments! Karen definitely was ahead of the world, no question!

Sam, I'm so glad you knew her! You have my sympathies for your loss as well. Maybe I will meet you on Monday?

KGeorgianna said...

Karen was one of my most incredible teachers! I recently graduated and had no idea that she was even sick! I am heartbroken and feel so sad...the world lost an incredible artist, teacher, and friend!

Skylark Studio said...

beautiful. what a weird crazy week it's been for all us. I'm going to have to print out that 2nd image as a reminder. xoxo

unemployeed said...

Karen was a beautiful amazing inspirational woman who I can thank for all of my accomplishments. I learned she was sick when I contacted her for a job reference and she was so sweet and kind. It broke my heart to hear this happened and I'm sorry it took me so long to find your post. I still think of Karen and I dedicate my teaching career to her. Because with out her I would not be who I am today.

Sara Smedley said...

Thank you so much Jennifer for sharing your thoughts and memories of Karen! It was nice to be reminded of her today; not that a day goes by when I don't think of her at least once. She would be touched and very proud of you I'm sure. She still lives on in the people who's lives she touched. Be well!