As Mari’s independence always sprang forth with everything she did.

Mari’s independence never ceased to amaze those around her. She loved being able to do things on her own like climbing the spiral staircase outside to get to the roof to go dancing on it. Or to find the moment when I wasn’t looking to open the window, open the screen, then climb through said window to go dancing in the street. Or flip the tall green laundry hamper upside down so she could climb on top to get to the key that kept her from getting outside. (And yes all of these things really happened.)

To think of Mari’s independent streak now puts a smile on my face as I remember the fond memories. But in those moments, boy did my heart have one too many attacks.

Through it all, you loved Mari for her independent spirit as she helped you to stay young.