While in Michigan, it always stopped my pace when I heard mom refer to her siblings in tender names. Down the line from Aunt Donna, Uncle Bruce to Aunt Joan, there was something in the way she spoke of them or looked at them that made you smile. Ever the protective matriarch, she'd talk about her siblings during car rides home, recapping the days events.
A moment that stands out in particular was when she was ready to walk down the steps to the garage at Aunt Joan and Uncle Dave's house--a task that called for Aunt Joan. She'd say, Joanie can help...or some variation thereof. Regardless, it was the "Joanie" that would always give me pause and made me smile, so similar to the Jilly's or D-Spot's or Craigery's for which I'm familiar. It gave dimension to mom, not as a mom, but as a sister.
Aunt Joan would take position and navigate backwards down the steps as she held mom's hands....Dad would take care of the walker, mom's belongings, and be ready to open the door...I'd take up the rear, gently supporting mom's back.
This was our system, and it always involved Joanie.
I am so awestruck, moved, teary-eyed and yet uplifted after reading all your writings. Wow I'm proud to be related to all of you. Your technologically ignorant ole aunt couldn't get her own password to work so I'm using Greg's to communicate with you. I hope Erin's drive is going well, maybe she is already in Denver. The visit with Mary, Jim and Erin was wonderful. Mary, you did just great, sorry you had problems after getting home. We sure had some laughs, especially the night we wheeled you in your chair from the table to the door at Olive Garden. Sorry Erin wasn't there for that one. You continue to be in my thoughts, always, and I send all our love.
ReplyDeleteJoan
Ditto for me on what Joan said. Although very short we enjoyed our time relaxing at Joan's. She always makes you feel at home. I was so happy to see Dave doing well also. Fight Fiercely Mary.
ReplyDeleteLove Bruce