I moved to Gainesville from St. Augustine in '94, with my parents still living on Anastasia Island, the number of times that I happily stopped at Take Me Places for atmosphere and coffee I could not tell. I read below and descriptions always fell short; being there had to be experienced says it so well. Im thankful to have spent enough time in that special place to be able to close my eyes and see it. I was lucky enough to spend my undergrad experience in Gainesville in the mid-late 90s. There was a resurgence of the hippy ethic. Why it happened or where it went I don't knowbut for those of us who were forever changed we had an oasis there to live free. Times have changed, again they always do but Cherie by her presence and power of being created another oasis, I think of stopping once with an old college girl friend after a weekend at the beach and Cherie telling me to remind her shes beautiful even with the sunburn and offered to for us to grab any aloe she would like those who knew her, even if only in brief conversations with coffee or damn cool bookmarks 'n such or anticipating get-togethers could see with their minds eye that this woman spiritually carried a torch with her, lighting a path creating a place for all families or people. I shared a smile and heartfelt comments with so many people sitting in those chairs. PEOPLE READING THIS REMEMBER HOW DAMN FUN IT WAS IN THERE!!! For any of Cherie's family reading this, I'm just another UF grad with family on the east coast who looked forward to what Cherie created in Melrose every time I was driving towards the sunrise on any one of those mornings. I'm sure there are many of uswho will think of her every time we pass byI also read below. Cherie and Cathleen, were so important in this world. Your Blessed ways of Being are so desperately needed. The good continues when those of us STILL HERE DO GOOD, Cherie showed all of us it can be done and blessed everyone with her presence and being. Sadly, drives to St. Augustine will never be the same.

I had been coming down to my family's cottage on Lake Santa Fe for about a year before I discovered Take Me Places. From the moment I walked in the door, I knew I'd found a special place and a community in my "second home." Cherie introduced me to everyone, and I felt welcome instantly. Over the last year, I've brought family and friends from Tallahassee into the coffee shop to meet Cherie and all the cool people in Melrose who frequent the place. In fact, my brother and his wife, who are visiting from Illinois and stopped by the coffee shop this morning, were the ones who delivered the sad news. I barely knew Cherie, and I don't think I ever met Cathleen, but their passing has left a void in my life as well. My heart goes out to all of you in Melrose and the friends and loved ones of Cherie and Cathleen all over. Know that they will be missed by a bunch of folks up here in Tallahassee.

I heard this news via e-mail from my dearest friend Flash. I still am having problems accepting that Cherie is not here with her commanding style. She was a free spirit that was able to reach out and touch many lives. I met her when flash and her were together. It was a time that was not easy for me, but maybe that is the point. I went to Florida to interview for a job and was sent with Flash on a healing journey that I am sure neither one of us will forget. We saved the lives of a mare and her foal. It was a period of transformation for me. Together we delievered this foal, me on the receiving end and Flash on the other, we helped this mother give birth. I learned the meaning of the cycles of life as my cat was dying. when I saw the love of this mother towards her child I began to understand my lesson here on earth. I became aware that an end is only an new beginning and trust me my friends this was not an easy lesson to learn. I felt anger, rage, and saddness that I was not sure I could survive. Poncho (my cat) was the absolute light and love of my life, however I had to learn how to let him go and I did not know how or why I should even consider such a thing. I know now that to know love on this plane is the greatest lesson of all. To be able to touch the lives of others, the way Cherie was able to do is an inspiration to us all. It truly is a new beginning, in which I am sure that she is busy on the other side, speaking to others in the only way Cherie was able to accomplish. With loving memories my friend... Nahimana

Cherie - you are a wonderful example of what it means to live a big genuine and generous life. Thank you so much for all your kind words and hugs.

I Miss you Auntie....Love you...

Dear Cherie ~ When I read Sonja's message, I thought of your world map attached to the flat front of the counter. The first thing you wanted to know when someone new came through your door was, "Where are you from?" You had round-ended push pins in multi-colors and would encourage people to put one in the area of the country or the world from where they came. Pins were scattered and clumped all over the map, each one a person, another chance for you to be taken places. If my Mom could have willed it so, Cherie and Cathleen, you could have been married in Michigan. At age 90, she fought hard, both at church and from home by telephone [to relatives and friends], advocating and 'lobbying' for lesbian and gay couples to have that right. Unfortunately, the vote did not come in on the side of righteousness and fairness. If my earlier message seemed like 'business as usual,' please know it's nowhere near that. My prayer is that one day, somehow, in some way, it may return to somewhere near that, and that people who never knew the two of you may come to do so, in some measure, through us. As I return continually to this site throughout my days, evenings, and mornings ["Refresh"ing each time, hoping for new messages, new photos], sorrow and tears still overwhelm me. I look at the photos, over and over again, as though if I somehow do it enough, they will transform and become you. I will go to the Cafe and you'll be there, just as you always have, and everything will be okay again. My disbelief comes in waves. I can't believe. I can't accept. I can't believe. I try so hard to stay focused on where you are now, in some blissful unknown; yet I can still feel the genuine and delicate sweetness of your hug, Cathleen; and the fullness, strength, and warmth of yours, Cherie. I can feel the thick weavings of your mane, Cherie, your spiraling curls everywhere; and my feelings of elation when I first saw your new haircut, Cathleen, full of gentle, soft, loose curls that magically gave you the look of an angel [you can see it in the photo of just you, with a part of Cherie's hair on the right]. I couldn't seem to stop exclaiming how beautiful you looked. The three of us laughed at my reaction because it was so immediate and ongoing, but it was also so obvious that I couldn't seem to help it. I can't believe I'll never see either of you again. Until I join you wherever you are now. For me, in so many ways, you 'were' the Cafe. When I brought someone new in, no matter how much I liked whoever was working that day, I lamented when neither of you were there [if one was, then most usually the other was, too]. You were the highlight, the hallmark; and the who and what I wanted to share most [along with a couple others, but they were less likely to be there], and introduce people to. It was through you two that I felt most free to be; to come, sit, interact if I chose, or just take in my surroundings in silence. I felt comfortable and at home. I felt secure in knowing that I would be heartily welcomed and embraced; no matter who else was around, I knew I could count on you, Cherie and Cathleen. Those feelings were at the core of what others, whom I know from elsewhere, couldn't fathom ~ why I would drive over 20 miles for a cup of coffee [and descriptions always fell short; being there had to be experienced]. That cup would become two, and the hours became full mornings and afternoons; once there, leaving was something rarely done by choice. Most often, I had to force myself. When I read Robin's message, I thought, "Yes. That is true." To someone, elsewhere, I had expressed that [in tragic irony] this driver would have been someone who, had the occasion arisen, you would have welcomed to the Cafe, Cherie, despite his obvious issues. My thoughts had not extended to sending him Love now. Yet, what Robin has said is undeniable. As a result of my career, I've worked with alcoholics and drug addicts. I know the powerlessness; yet, the loss of you two is still too raw to be able to send Love with honesty right now. In time, with healing, and you as my examples, I may be able. Right now, as with forgiveness, it would be a decision, but not a heartfelt one. This is one of the many reasons why you, Cherie and Cathleen, were so important in this world. Your Blessed ways of Being are so desperately needed. Love, Elizabeth

Ok Cathy, you and I found humor...but this is from our hearts.. To you, you wonderful person: God Speed. What a blessing this Web Site is and how comforting to the family.You have found life in death with your stories and for that we are truly gratefil. My husband Don "Uncle Don" is Cathy's dads brother, and I am by default (divorce) her ugly step aunt.... Cathy lived with us during a time of turmoil and questions but there will never be two people happier that she found peace and happiness in her life than Carter and I. This tragety is unthinkble..."What If's" go on forever for us mortals but be sure we are fitting into God's plan, however you see Him, and what-ever he has in store: Good Grief, maybe there is a gaggle of sinners needing coffie in heaven right now....who better????? Our regret - we did not meet Cherie...We extend to her family our deepest condolence . It does not get harder than this.... The best is yet to come, Go! Hug! Live! Love! And Believe. And Cath, look out for thoses cats....spaz does not end here....We love you... Carter, Cj and the Fur Friends

I only meet Cathy a couple of times, but she was a sweet woman. I went to school with her little sister Brandi. She took us to our first concert, that was 8 years ago but, I have never forgotten that day. It was filled with fun and shopping. I would like to give my condolences to her family and friends.

Cherie called this wonderful coffee shop Take Me Places. In fact it was Cherie's warmth, and big hearted ways that wound up taking US places, and this place she took us to, was home. I stopped in on my days off in Fla, coffee on the go, or just looking for that quick teasing chat with Cherie. In the 30 yrs I have known Melrose it has never had such a daily spot (but for the wonder that is Lee House). We hopefuls, worn out warriors, optimists, children, the bereaved, working moms and soccer dads, retirees- all of us like minded, tender hearted neighbors were drawn to this coffee shop that felt like home. Indeed, you took us someplace... It seems that Cherie all along had the BIG PICTURE in mind, and now for sure she has that view and it is extraordinary... So many broken hearts now, Dale, Corky, Flash, Catie, others I don't know. This was a woman with a lot to say. Listen carefully, keep an open heart and mind for I am certain she will be sending comfort when you least expect it. Bless you Cherie and Cathleen for leaving Melrose a little better place. If there are any efforts around creating a Cherie & Cathleen Law for habitual offenders, pls let me know.

Egads, I have to make another comment. And I have been talking about these two Cherie and Cathleen all week. Oh heck, I talked about them and to them all the time for the year that I knew them in physical form. Elizabeth thanks for mentioning the honor system (payment basket) and the tab box. This was real faith in people. I worked at the coffee shop for many months and at first it made me nervous, thinking I would be responsible if someone didn;t pay enough, but then I realized that if one believes in the goodness of people and believes she is in God(dess)'s protection then why worry? It changed me of course. I hope those who are in charge of the continuance of Take Me Places, continue it as it is, a spiritual action. This kind of business is not taught at Harvard Business School, but it oughta be:-)

I did not personally know Cathleen,but I did know Cherie. I lived in the apartment above the the coffee shop and I have many fond memories of spending time there. I would wander down(most of the time in my pajamas) and sit and chat with Cherie. She was an inspiration, full of life and optimism. She always had a cheerful word or insightful poem for me at 7am. Cherie made me feel at home in Melrose and she holds a very special place in my heart. I will always remember her enthusiasm for life,as it was and is very contagious . . .

Cherie and Cathleen were truly "Ambassadors" for Melrose and the surrounding area. When my wife Diane and I moved to the area recently, Cherie spotted us as newcomers right away, coming over to our table at Blue Water Bay to introduce herself and make us welcome in the true spirit of gracious Southern hospitality. We later met Cathleen at the coffee shop and found her to be a complete delight as well. We visited the coffee shop last the day of the Christmas Parade, laughing and socializing together with Cherie & Cathleen. That's what we will always remember most... friendship, love of life, smiling faces, and neighbors we were privileged to know. We miss you and have you in our prayers and thoughts.

Dear Cherie, I will miss you soo much! Thanks for setting up this webside! I spend with Cherie 3 years in Acupuncture school and we were one family because of the incredible experience we shared.Cherie touched my heart and soul and a part of her will always be with me... I am happy I got know Cathleen in November,when I came to visit. They where so good for each other. And we shared a great day, even when we watched surviver:) I wish I could be with everybody on Sunday but I will be there in my thoughts.

I didn't know that they died with their arms around each other. Thank you for that detail. It brought tears to my eyes. And Robin, you're right--love to the man sitting in prison. Cherie always gave folks the benefit of the doubt. No matter how wrong he was, I bet today he's hating himself. He's gonna need some positive vibes from somewhere. And we've got love to spare, around here. We're swimming in it.

My Dearest Cherie and Cathleen: If I could paint a picture of the delight I had in knowing you, it would be the best picture I've ever done. I have no words to convey how much you meant to me, nor how grateful I am that our paths crossed and that we got to walk along together for a time. The following are words from one of the greatest artists of all time... nothing but the best for you...nothing but the best.

Let me not to the marriage of true minds
Admit impediments. Love is not love
Which alters when it alteration finds
Or bends with the remover to remove.
O no! it is an ever-fixed mark
That looks on tempests and is never shaken;
It is the star to every wandering bark,
Whose worth's unknown, although his height be taken,
Love's not Time's fool, though rosy lips and cheeks
Within his bending sickle's compass come;
Love alters not with his brief hours and weeks;
But bears it out even to the edge of doom,
If this be error and upon me proved,
I never writ, nor no man ever loved.

William Shakespeare

I have to keep reminding myself that the man in jail is not evil, he is sick. This month I am celebrating 21 years of sobriety as a recovering alcoholic. Many years ago, I too drove drunk. I thank God I did not hurt anybody. I've learned a lot about this disease. It is the only one that tells me I'm not an alcoholic. It is the only one that tells me I'm not drunk when I also know I am. it is the only disease that tells me I can drive when i know perfectly well I'm impaired. Denial is a powerful mind bender. I know now I was insane. I'm grateful I am not that way today. I can send that man love and understanding, knowing that he is powerless over his illness, and a prayer that he is becomes willing to reach for help and healing . It's up to him. He'll have plenty of time to think about it in prison.

Open as the seas
hearts that please
bringing together community
souls meant to be
called toward the highest good
with stellar sources flying free
The moon will continue to wane and
all that you have touched will gain
love magnified by unity

Blessed Be

Shock, Disbelief and saddness reside with me today, after my friend Jeanne emailed me to tell me of the tragic loss of Cherie and her partner Cathy. I have visited "Take Me Places Cafe" many times over the last couple years and just loved the cozy "Love Vibe" of Cherie and Cathy and the people who gathered there. Cherie always had that infectious laugh that rang through the place. I will miss them and seeing her smiling face. And send some love to the man sitting in jail who caused this whole thing to happen, It's what Cherie would do.... Cherie and Cathy, Thanks for creating the cafe and for leaving your footprints on our hearts. Blessed Be, Robin Davis aka Faireluv

It is too difficult to write about these two souls at this time when their departures are so recent. Perhaps later when the grieving is less intense, the words will come. Suffice for now to say that they will be missed profoundly in the Melrose community both individually and as a couple. I knew them both ways. I must concentrate now on the good parts of all this past living. They found each other in time, they visited their famiies in time, they loved the world in time, and they lived life to it's fullest, in time. Blessed Be , Shewolf

Thank you for this website.

Cherie i met you 8 years ago in Cape Cod with Captain Claudia,she would say you were something else,and she was right. You were one the most wonderful fun caring people i have ever met. And when i met Cathleen i knew you met someone special. when you were here last year with us for a few days we had a great time with both of you. we will miss the two of you, and never forget you PEACE

I'm devastated. I've known you such a short while and now you are gone! On Friday, Cherie, you gave me one of your giant all- embracing hugs. We laughed, we sang, we sat around the campfire, we joked. I kidded you about wearing your winter sarong to the New Year's Eve party. You laughed and said:" Yeah, this one has sleeves", since it was cool enough to need a jacket. Cathleen was the perfect partner for you, a quiet but supportive presence. Thank you for your kind words about my poetry. Thank you for lighting up my life with your boundless enthusiasm and loving acceptance. Thank you for all the gifts you leave in the hearts of everyone whose lives you touched. I'm sad - and I'm laughing. I have this vision of you both sailing across the face of the moon on your mighty Harley like the bicycle in the movie ET, but with sarong and hair flying and a string of pets galloping along behind. Go in peace, go with love. You will be welcome wherever you land.

Oh sweet Cherie. How saddened we all are that you have left us and this earth. But then again you knew that this was not your real home. I know that you are in the arms of God's love and that the Eternal Arms are wrapped tightly around you and Cathleen and are right now bathed in LOVE that is so perfect, we would be overwhelmed by it here on earth. I met Cherie' when I came to Provincetown to sell at Harbor Hill. Cherie' was my sales manager and little did I know that my life would forever be changed by her and my time at Harbor Hill. She taught me how to sell and "not to be afraid to ask for the money." I not only started a successful sales career to this day, but also it was her encouragement to return to my first love, the ministry. Both Cherie' and I shared alot in common in our past. We both had family journeys and both had been active in youth ministry and loved the REAL Jesus, not the one whom so many say discriminates. At Harbor Hill my ministry started with commitment ceremonies. Cherie's style was to always show love and to bring the Spirit to most everyone she met. Little did I know that in her inspiring me to follow my dream, that it would also change the world. Yes, change the world. Last May, marriage for same sex couples became legal in Massachusetts. Through the efforts of many like myself, the dreamed happened. Cherie' also came to Key West and ended up becoming a houseboater like me. I'll never forget being out with her on her houseboat and the dolphins leading us and swimming with us. Summer of '03' I was now sitting in my office, I now being a sales manager at a local resort. Up pulled Cherie' in a white Cadilac. With a big smile she walked into my office. We screamed and laughed and hugged. I hadn't seen her in a while and there had been some distance between us. She introduced Cathleen, whom she adored. She was proud of me with my sales and ministry. Cherie' and Cathleen stayed with me that visit. It was a great time of healing and fellowship for us. I saw the video of the Melrose Holiday parade. She beemed over her dream, "Take me Places". We last spoke this summer. I was going to visit ,"Take me Places", this winter. Thank you God for Cherie' and all those she touched. I will never forget your wisdom words to me, "Show them a new way babe!" and the lessons God showed me in how our words affect one another. My dear friend Jesus was so right when He said, "You shall know them by thier fruit" You were God's Orchad. Bye for now precious ones, but for only for a time. One day we will be worshiping around the Author of Love's throne and singing praises together. Peace and Love. Jewel

We met Cherie at acupuncture school. She was always very giving and loving. She invited my husband and I down to her place to stay for a few weekends by ourselves while she was gone. She said the door is never locked, just come down and have a good time. That is how she lived her life. She will be greatly missed in this world.

It is a shame that a man, with no consideration for others. Is going to be able to walk on the face of this earth, when two people who have meant so much to so many people, are now going ( to a better place). Let hope that the Legal system will do this fine ladies justice and put Mr. Killer away so he will never be able to hurt so many people again, by taking another live (or Lives). Please let us all know when the court dates will be, so we may have to chance to go and show our support. This site is great keep it up.

There is also an article in the Short Crime Stories section of the Bradford Telegraph, 1/6/05. This is a very tragic ordeal. I hope that the state gives the driver a hefty sentance. I honestly think he should sit in jail and rot for killing these two women. I didn't know either of these women, but no matter if I knew them or not, it is not right for this man or any to be on the road when they have been suspended from driving indefinately. I hope that the coffee shop will stay open in their memory. I would hate to see it close.

I stopped by a friends home today to visit, and I grapped the Alton Telegraph to to take a peak. I turned to the obituarties and saw a familar face and name! I am very saddened to say I saw a name that was very familar to me. One of my dear friends in which I had the oppurtinity of having a friendship in my grade school years, Cathy Carter. I remember you quite so well! I remember spending the night just about every Friday night with you,bouncing on the bed, laughing and giggling over such silly things that most young girls do! I remember when we were being chased by Charlie Banister around the Grafton School gymnasium and we got caught running through the halls. I remember your Dad would always tease us, because we would paint our toe nails bright red! Oh, we thought we were so cute and cool! I sit now in a daze, and type this note and say to myself," we never know what our future holds!" Even though we did loose touch, I have a emptiness now inside me. I pray now that you are standing before our gracious God in Heaven and glowing his in delight! God has provided a special home for each and everyone of us that accepts his eternal gift. I pray that those that have come to know you and love you have accepted that gift that they can someday join you in Heaven. Tears came to my eyes as I read your obiturary but, even more as I continued to read about your love and kindness that you showed to so many people. It made me feel very proud to hear how your gracious heart and your love has helped so many people. God gave you a special gift and with that gift you were able to touch many lives and hearts and give them the joy that you had! I will pray for your friends and family that if they have not come to know our Lord Jesus Christ as their personal savior that they will look to him and lay open their hearts and ask for his forgivness. I pray that they will ask for his guidance and strength in their daily lives. May your light so shine that those that you loved will feel his presence with them and make their daily walk more devine in his grace. As to the friends and families may God lift you up, and may you look to him to give you the daily strength and to overcome this great loss. May God Bless, Cathy and to those that love you and loved your presence. May peace be with each and every one of you. Your Grade School Friend, Lisa (Jones) Kruemmelbein

FLASH... thank you!! I need to stay in touch with you. Your words below have touched me, more than you'll ever know , and i hear ya girl. I cry with you....I scream with you. I ache from so deep inside, as so many do. Flash you said it best below, to have those memories. WOW! Although, they are now my memories too. I see them too, on the beach. I can see their hair flying behing them. Oh, yes my baby Cathy......found her soul......her being, her Cherie. She once told me she didn't think she would ever find "that special someone". Her life took her to Melrose. Before leaving for Florida, she researched many areas. She chose Melrose. I was scard for her to go so far from me. But, I also knew Cathy, and Forida is where she had talked of wanting to go for over a decade. Her destiny was waiting for her in Melrose. I just cannot get over this mess. Flash, I would love to talk with you, would love to keep in touch.........lori

I only met these beautiful women once, but the energy, the spirit, the warmth was immediate and undeniable. I never forgot them and each time I drove past their establishment I felt a hope for humankind. They were loved by the community and everyone they touched. Their physical presence will be greatly missed, but that energy will go on forever.

I didn't know either of the women but I read the story about Cathleen in the newspaper where I live (The Alton Telegraph). I just wanted to say that although I did not know her or Cherie, I believe that Heaven has a spot just for them. A special place where all those who have dedicated their lives to helping others. I'm very sorry to all that have lost these two special individuals. You are all in my thoughts and prayers. Peace be with you all

Cherie and Cathleen, I don't even know where to start. You both were brilliant lights in my life and I feel lost without your bodily presence, but I know you are there to guide me nevertheless. You were both there to hold my hand and my heart when it felt like it was breaking. You gave me the wisdom and strength to find myself again. To find the real me that was lurking in the corner scared to step out into the sunshine. You showed me how to bask in the sunlight I shine on myself without relying on someone else to fulfill me. I learned more from you than you could ever know, but I think the most important thing I learned was what true love really looks like. When I watched the two of you together I felt a spiritual warmth I had never experienced before. The only thing that has eased my pain is the knowledge that you left this earth together. I dont think either of you could have breathed without the other. You were truly soul mates. For the first couple of days all I could do was sob. I would sit on my porch next door to your house and stare at your diva mobile. I kept waiting for you to come home. Thoughts of the two of you filled my mind, remembering every detail of every conversation the three of us had. I found myself laughing so hard that I would start to cry again. Both of you had a way of making me laugh even when I didnt want to. I still have the candle you brought me and you were right It did bring me love. I am forever grateful that you had the chance to meet and get to know Amy. I know how excited you were that she was brought into my life. I also remember, Cherie, how you wanted to steal my cat from me. Ha! If you only knew now how wild she is, but then you would have loved that about her. Yesterday, I was given a small kitten that looks a lot like her. She is full of life and has a very adventuresome spirit. Amy and I have decided we will name her CC in honor of you both. Cherie and Cathleen, I am blessed to have known you and loved you. You touched my spirit. God Speed. Kelly and Amy

Thank you, Lori, for your permission to write again. For those of you who never had the fate and good fortune to meet Cherie and Cathleen, or to visit Take Me Places, I want to add to the comment, made by Patricia in her wonderful writings, regarding Cherie's being "funny as hell" about money. In addition to her being funny in the way Patricia related, Cherie was funny in the reverse, as well. She had no cash register and no cash drawer at the Cafe. Instead, there sat atop the counter, crowded amongst other things, a small, round, natural-material basket. It held various bills and change, in disarray, some folded, others neatly placed, and some crumpled. When the women handed people their food or drink item, and the customer tried to give them the money, they simply pointed to the basket, and said, "Just put it there. We're on the honor system here." Customers were free to make their own change, and include a tip or not, as everyone's money filled the basket, whilst the day proceeded. If someone were to thieve from the basket, or simply not pay, Cherie or Cathleen never knew about it, as they had already gone on to other things, greeting, sharing with, and helping other, old and newfound friends. Cherie's money issues went even further beyond this informal system, however. If you came to Cherie's, lacking money, but being hungry or thirsty, she had a 3 x 5, plastic, file card holder, on which people who needed or chose to, ran their own tab. Cherie didn't record the items, dates, or amounts. We were free to do that ourselves. The honor system. At the end of each year, Cherie made a gentle, general request to all running a tab, to "please try to catch up on it, if you haven't already." She never singled anyone out, and her word choices always gave people the benefit of the doubt. In, perhaps, every way imaginable, Cherie and Cathleen's Cafe was unique. To experience a sense of all that these women created, please, as you're able, come, see, and share a splendid cup of coffee or home-brewed chai. Pleasure in the art that you'll find covering the walls. Sit comfortably and enjoy the music and conversation. Meet new people. Breakfast and various snack items should still be available; however, breakfast is more likely to be a vegetarian, breakfast, bagel sandwich or quiche. Pastry and muffins are likely choices, too. No ham, bacon, or fried eggs will be on the menu, a board posted on the wall. Whether those keeping the Cafe open will opt for the honor system remains to be seen. However, you will still be openly welcomed and included. The resplendent warmth and beauty, colors and feeling of this gathering place will still be there. Cherie and Cathleen's spirits will be ever-present, as we grieve; and, then, as we celebrate their lives and their spontaneous, loving energies. Love, Elizabeth Bacon-Smith

My friend Briana introduced me to Cherie - she was so full of light & delight & my life was nourished whenever we spoke. I used to call them with phonetree messages, & I remember them both on speaker phone talking to me about how much they enjoyed an event in Fort Lauderdale with Maharaji. Every time I call the phonetree I will so miss their voices & energy .. I went to Take me Places with Jack in June for a video introducing Maharaji's message - they weren't there, but Cherie was so generous in wanting to help get the word out... Take me Places was so special & full of love & warmth. Saw an image of them on the local TV news (didn't realise it was them) on the bike, waving & looking ecstatic. They lived life to the full, & they left this earth together on the beloved Harley, They blessed us all, didn't they? Sonia

You made me a better person, I'll love and miss you both forever.

This morning my daughter brought the paper in to me before I got out of bed and said she had some sad news. She handed me the paper and there were the headlines and pictures of Cherie and Cathleen and Harimandir and Mark. People that I know and people who have touched my life. I wake up and rub my eyes so I can see better. What happened? What is this about? NO! It cant be! Theres a picture of Cherie looking back at me from the beach. Shes happy. She loved the beach. She loved people. She loved to help others. She had an open heart and a listening ear. She was a giving person. She gave to me. A few years back I had surgery and no transportation and no money. Cherie took up a collection and she sent someone to my house to take me to the grocery store. She was kind. She didnt want anyone to suffer or go hungry. She told me once that she opened the coffee house so people could come there and know that they have friends and acceptance. She had a purpose in life and she fulfilled that purpose. She touched a lot of lives. Through acceptance of her own imperfectness she allowed us to accept our own imperfection. Through the permission she gave herself to strive for perfection, she gave us permission to strive for the same. Perfection being those things that are unseen..kindness, forgiveness, love, acceptance, joy. She made us join hands, to sing, to dance, to be happy, to cry, to above all, accept our humaness. And she lives on. Her life being fulfilled. Her spirit soaring. No longer to cry, no longer to have pain. And we all share, from all walks of life, from all experiences, in the thread of Cheries life that touched all our own. We all recognize that need in our own hearts that at one time or another, at the coffee shop, was fulfilled by Cherie because that was her purpose. We were nourished, we were fed, we were enlightened, we were comforted, we were loved, we sang, we danced. We came away in peace. We knew we were loved. That is the legacy of Cherie. Thankyou Cherie.

I, like so many others, did not have the honor and privilege of knowing these women and truly feel that it is my loss. I think the best way to honor these women who gave so much to so many is to love each other better, be kinder to strangers, play more, laugh more, love yourself and let your friends and family know how much they mean to you often. There is no better way to memoralize these loving, kind women than to carry on their spirit.

I met Cherie about 2 weeks after arriving in Gainesville about 2 1/2 years ago. I had moved here from a very unhappy place in my life---when I got to the coffee shop to see a photo exhibit, Cherie asked me if I wanted to join her and others swimming for the day. I decided on the spur of the moment to go.....what a day - I met Corky, Ru, and others....What a day I had -- it is hard to even express how that day has stayed with me for over 2 years. She made me feel so welcome and I enjoyed myself for the entire day - I knew right from that day that I was going to be happy here in Gainesville. I was blessed to have even known these two women for a short time.

God be with you all their family and friends, and give you strength. It sounds like so many were blessed by knowing them and that they touched so many lives.

Lori, Cath spoke of you often and with such love. You meant a lot to her as you must know. Keep us as a lifeline to make some sense out of this tragedy we here at least have each other so don't hesitate to scream/cry or share what you need sister. We are all here for you too. Blessings Flash

I don't know if I can find the words to truly express how much Cherie and Cathleen meant to me.Cherie rode into my heart like a firestorm on her Harley and turned my world upside down and inside out and we shared one helluva year together. She said we must share a common vision as she popped her contact lenses into my eyes and so began our journey together on so many planes. There was no one like Cherie no one so in the moment,vibrant and full of life and such a heart... I was blessed and honored to have shared that year which we grabbed a hold of like there was no tomorrow for to Cherie the present was all there was and tomorrow was another day yet unborn. It is unfathomable to me how I will go on without her in my life and yet i will and will do my damndest to help continue the work she and Cath started as well as see that their dying was not in vain when the Cherie and Cathleen law gets passed to prosecute drunk repeat offenders to the fullest extent of the law and to expand that law. It is some comfort and peace to me to know that we spent that beautiful day at the beach together and that I in a way got to say goodbye with a hug and kisses to both and the classic Harley Ride Safe. It is still almost haunting how at the last minute that afternoon i seperated my path from theirs and rode an hour south to treat a dying pony which is now well and probably saved my life as well because i would have been either in front or right behind them on that fateful day. The community really supported and helped me and protected me when I rode thru town the next morning making sure that I had someone to help me through the initial moments. That is what these women created here and that is what is happening for all who come to this shrine for the Blessed Melrose Divas a place where the Goddess is So Alive and Magic is Afoot!! Cathleen was the perfect mate for Cherie always there in her quiet way and so sad for her too as she was just really blossoming in the joy and exuberance of Chergies love.They had a day to end all days and seeing them riding across the beach hair flying in all directions as the waves crashed about them like some romantic movie was a memory i will never forget. I loved them both deeply and profoundly and they were my best friends and losing them both hurts more than i can say but I know that they were so happy that day and went out in a blaze of glory befitting my two Amazon Angels in each others arms on the Thunderstick. wanted me to be marry them in what they called a Soulship and so I made them stone pieces for Solstice as an engaement present. I din;lt know how fast these would be needed for surely the Goddess has Blessed and married them in a way far beyond the bigotry and limits of immoral politriks and so we will come together and dance and sing and celebrate two beautiful lives taken from us way too soon but leaving behind such a legacy few could have carved out in such a short time.I love you Cherie and Cathleen Love in this life and the next Flash

Gosh, Karen Chadwick, thank you for your entry. It is beyond beautiful. Thank you for writing Karen. I can just see Cathy now at the bow.

I think we can all make as many entries as needed. I love reading and rereading them all. I want to thank Eliz Bacon-Smith thank you for telling your story. I loved them both, I live in St Louis and I need to hear all the words I can. Jaye Perett, thank you for letting all of us know you and many others will be in court when Mr Killer Man (randy morin) is sentenced. Please......keep me informed. I will check the paper in Florida...what paper? the Gainesville Sun? will they carry the news? I noticed that Cathy's Uncle Don and Connie wrote. Good to hear from them. Cathy's body is arriving in ST. Louis today. In Alton Il, just accross the Mississippi she will be laid to rest on Saturday. The viewing if Friday night in Alton. I do not normally view bodies, although, this time I need to see my baby, Cathy, to make sure. Just to get closure....to hold her one last time. My heart and soul will go on....as Cheri and Cathy would definitely want. But, oh my..........the deep ache inside me. As I celebrate their lives, I keep coming back to this beautiful site for comfort. You beautiful people, Katie, Kirsten, Flash, Harmundir, Dale, etc..... they spoke of you all. I love you all for caring and setting up this site. I am also very interested in what happens to that habiual offender. What the hell kind of laws do we have. Perhaps if he were required to wear a wrist or ankle bracelet....they could track these "habitual losers" oops offenders. I have no pitty for this 33 year old person. Sorry to go angry on this site. But , my grieving is not coming easy. I loved reading that the girls where singing with Jaye on New Years Eve. Gosh, all the folks who have written and didn't even know them. Is there anyway to post a picture of the statue and the flowers? I am printing all the photos. Thanks to all who posted the. Thanks in general to all of you ......for helping me heal.

Words rattle around in my head like lost children in the dark bumping into walls. My life dreams included both of you and I can't find a new age or old sage thought to make sense of this event, an event life changing for so many. But that's what you were all about anyway, changing lives. I know you would want us to find laughter and make the best of this situation and we will. We just need time to tremble in the wake if this vacuum of change. Cherie, it was impossible to hold pain on my heart when standing next to you and if I told you I wanted something I had to be ready to go get it or do it because the time was always right and you always knew who had it or where to go and we would jump in the Caddie, hitch up the sarong and speed of in a whirlwind of optimism. Cathleen I will always remember watching you standing on the bow of my boat in a light rain, no rain gear, with your head tilted back and your arms extended receiving your blessing of rain as we glided through the rainbow circle which had appeared before us. The only sounds were the raindrops tickling the surface of the sea as you gently reached with your right hand toward the rainbows inner edge. Bliss was the look upon your face and grace, as always, was your demeanor. This once in a lifetime event just seemed like the most natural thing with you there to share it with me. I will carry your smiles in my heart and extend my palms to your freedom. with love Karen Chadwick

I never met Cathleen, but I did meet Cherie once and I still remember her glowing smile, and warm presence. It is so sad. I feel like I know them after reading these entries, and it's so sad that they are gone.

While I never met either of these women, I did spend time with her brother Don on his return trip with Cherie via Memphis. I know how much he cared for her and difficult days he and the rest of the family will have. Remember that this body is just a dress rehearsal for what is to come for all of us!

I AM VERY SORRY ABOUT THE LOSS OF THESE 2 WONDERFUL WOMEN... U WILL BE MISSED... MAY GOD BE WITH US ALL... DEBBIE HALLE

Cherie and Cathleen, I miss you more each day. I am so thankful that we all sang together on New Year's Eve. There is no one that I would have wanted to bring the new year in with than you. We have plans you two. We will not allow your leaving us to be in vain. We will fill the court room when Morin is sentenced and let the Judge know of our loss. We will take the fight against drunk drivers to Tallahassee and get better laws. I hope that you both knew that you were the "Wind Beneath many people's wings" Everyone at the EARS sanctuary loves you and misses you so very much.