A tribute...
I recently received news that my great aunt passed away. I was hoping that this wouldn't happen while Crista and I were out of the country, because we desperately wanted to be with family during this time. I have managed to keep this news from Crista since she agreed before we left that hearing this would distract her from our purposes here. So in an attempt to keep Crista away from the computer I will be making posts while she is sleeping, which may limit the amount of times I can update the blog.
I have decided to post a tribute to my Aunt Bessie, since I won't be able to attend the services on Monday.
Laughter, spunk, stubborn, and a healthy appetite for hot dogs are what I remember most about my Great Aunt Bessie. For many years we would dress ourselves in layers and make our annual Christmas visit to see Aunt Bessie and Uncle Johnny. Once inside their house we would immediately begin to peel off the layers of clothing, while Aunt Bessie would offer us homemade cookies and diet soda. Meanwhile Uncle Johnny would make his way to the thermostat to take the "chill" off the air from the open door we just entered. Inevitably Aunt Bessue and Uncle Johnny would have some friendly banter back and forth about soething, providing entertainment for all. The evening usually included Uncle Johnny cuttying up the cardboard boxes from their Christmas gifts into small pieces for the trash.
When Uncle Johnny passed away in 1994, Aunt Bessie became a regular part of our family gatherings by moving in with MomMom. Wherever MomMom went Aunt Bessie was sure to follow, even as far as Israel. This set up got me thinking about my own future, and would joke with Crista, my 16 1/2 years younger sister, about moving in with her when I turned 80. I'm hoping for a trip around the French Riviera as a gift from Crista for my 85th birthday!
Just the other week I was curling Aunt Bessie's hair when her roommate Betty asked if she was getting a male visitor. Aunt Bessie always had a quite witted response to such comments, and announced that no one would want her anymore. Her comebacks were usually followed with a smile and little giggle. The first day in the reitrement home I went with Aunt Bessie to physical therapy to which she repeatedly said she didn't need because she was too old. She had the staff laughing , but politely obeyed their requests.
I'm sad that Crista and I will not be a part of the memorial services on Monday, but know my heart will be with the family. I pray that the 97 years she graced our presence will be celebrated and that the God of mercy will welcome her with open arms.
Love you Aunt Bessie!
I have decided to post a tribute to my Aunt Bessie, since I won't be able to attend the services on Monday.
Laughter, spunk, stubborn, and a healthy appetite for hot dogs are what I remember most about my Great Aunt Bessie. For many years we would dress ourselves in layers and make our annual Christmas visit to see Aunt Bessie and Uncle Johnny. Once inside their house we would immediately begin to peel off the layers of clothing, while Aunt Bessie would offer us homemade cookies and diet soda. Meanwhile Uncle Johnny would make his way to the thermostat to take the "chill" off the air from the open door we just entered. Inevitably Aunt Bessue and Uncle Johnny would have some friendly banter back and forth about soething, providing entertainment for all. The evening usually included Uncle Johnny cuttying up the cardboard boxes from their Christmas gifts into small pieces for the trash.
When Uncle Johnny passed away in 1994, Aunt Bessie became a regular part of our family gatherings by moving in with MomMom. Wherever MomMom went Aunt Bessie was sure to follow, even as far as Israel. This set up got me thinking about my own future, and would joke with Crista, my 16 1/2 years younger sister, about moving in with her when I turned 80. I'm hoping for a trip around the French Riviera as a gift from Crista for my 85th birthday!
Just the other week I was curling Aunt Bessie's hair when her roommate Betty asked if she was getting a male visitor. Aunt Bessie always had a quite witted response to such comments, and announced that no one would want her anymore. Her comebacks were usually followed with a smile and little giggle. The first day in the reitrement home I went with Aunt Bessie to physical therapy to which she repeatedly said she didn't need because she was too old. She had the staff laughing , but politely obeyed their requests.
I'm sad that Crista and I will not be a part of the memorial services on Monday, but know my heart will be with the family. I pray that the 97 years she graced our presence will be celebrated and that the God of mercy will welcome her with open arms.
Love you Aunt Bessie!
Michelle
