A "Peace" of Kate: "A True Friend, A Gem"

What can I say about Kate Shea?  She was a gem and a true friend to everyone that knew her.  And I mean true.  

Kate and I became friends at a young and formative age.  We met at "Harris Street"- at the beach, as we all did back then.  It was our social hub, (back before cell phones, and what not), our hangout day and night, and where Kate was lucky to call home.  

She had a house full of siblings and her loving and caring attitude towards them was immediately obvious.  Coming from a family with only one older sibling, I really appreciated that she had responsibilities beyond just your average teenager, and how she cared for her family.  

Her adventurous spirit and beauty, both inside and out, was magnetic and we became friends instantly.  She was always happy, generous, and fun.  

We shared a summer loving our long days and "nights out" together.  To know Kate was to love her and I am so grateful to have been part of her life.  

I have one particular memory that hold dear.  I will not share all the details but, suffice to say it ended with a sunrise.  I can still picture Kate walking towards me smiling, and the morning sun perfectly captured her silhouette like a halo around her.  It was the perfect ending to our hysterical night and It makes me smile every time I think of it.   

This is the first time I will be able to make the 5k run, having lived abroad all these years and only just this year being able to time a trip properly.  I truly cannot wait because I know that I will feel connected on an even deeper level to Kate and the special memories I have.  You will always have a special place in my heart Kate Shea.  

I miss you and I love you.

Missy Akersten McDermott