Lea, I am so sorry to hear about your mom. I can relate to the feelings you have about the big hole her passing has created. This September will be 10 years since I lost my mom and 12 years since I lost my dad. I can tell you that I still think about them daily, but the sting of their absence has been diminished by time.
I feel lucky to have known her, even if it was only via the web. I am positive that she was the kind of person that one could not help but like.
Thank you, Karma, for your sage advice and friendship. Rest in peace.