I remember the last time I saw Alyssa. My daughter Jessica and me bought tickets to Colorado Ballet's Nutcracker in either 2008 or 2009, and we were both very hopeful that we would see Alyssa dance. Imagine our surprise when we found out that she WAS dancing that day, and she was dancing the role of Clara. Jessica wanted to see her friend and wish her luck before the performance, so we bought a Nutcracker at the Company store, and sought out our old friend Arthur Espinosa, who "snuck" us backstage to see Alyssa. Luckily, Roxanne was also there that day so we got to see both of them. Alyssa was thrilled with the Nutcracker, and she gave us both the biggest, warmest hugs. I can still feel that hug, and have visions in my mind of her beautiful performance that day. I feel honored to have known such a beautiful young woman. A bright star that shone so bright, and was gone way too soon. Sweet Angel, I am sure she is dancing across the heavens tonight, always young, always beautiful.