People You Know

On Wednesday night, this happened. A friend of ours, a friend for many years, was shot dead by a man she had broken up with. He then shot his dog and himself.

I've been walking around in shock since we were called with the news yesterday morning.

This kind of thing -- this tragic, unexplainable act -- does not happen to people you know. It happens to people from different worlds, who move in different circles, who live far away.

Never people you know.

Elissa was truly one of happiest, fun-loving people I've known. She was uncomplicated, genuine and kind. She loved a good party, she loved to dance and she loved to make amazing cakes to help all her friends celebrate the big occasions in their lives.

She made the most beautiful cake for Dan and my engagement party, another for our wedding, another when Lucinda was born.

I've spent so many happy, laughter-filled evenings over the years chatting with Elissa about everything. The ups and downs. Relationships.

Her concerns about the man who this week shot her dead.

She did not deserve this. No one deserves this. Elissa, particularly, did not deserve this.