It is with the most profound sadness that I announce the passing of my beloved little companion Lola, just 20 days before her 13th birthday. Although she had become ill these last two years, she continued to fight with every bit of her 4 1/2 lbs, the good fight, and came back from many near-death experiences, surprising all those who knew and loved her. But to any animal lover, we all treasure the unique qualities that our dogs possess. For me, it was her innate elegance, her special brand of athleticism, her love of fabrics and design meetings, and her pride and courage up until the end. She was my protector, my inspiration, my joy, and in the darkest of times, my confidante. As any pet lover knows, dogs do really give unconditional love, and they deserve so much in return, because they give so much and expect so little. Little Lola is gone, but her spirit and the lessons she taught me will remain in my heart forever. And to my devoted Sin, who truly sacrificed everything to care for our little girl, I am forever indebted to you. You made her quality and love of life possible. And I thank you from the bottom of my heart. XX V