Dear Rose, Liz, Reino, Andrew, & Kathleen,
I am so sorry for the loss of your mother. It is difficult when those we love pass over, yet it is our common journey and, ultimately, the one that unites us once again. I hope knowing others are thinking of you and remembering your mother will help you at this painful time.
I remember her from before any of you were born. As a young girl, I saw her as the beautiful young woman with gorgeous cascading curls my brother was dating. She often came to our house and I idolized her. One day, not getting my own way with Moo, I decided to run away and move in with Mary, Alma, and Andi. Moo gave me a suitcase to pack and Mary said I could come over (smart, weren't they?). I made the trip and was welcomed at Alma's. I decided to go back home the same day, but the experience added to my sense of acceptance in my world. If ever needed, I felt I would have another place to go.
When wedding plans were announced, I was living a dream of most girls in those days: My big brother was marrying a princess, and I would get to participate in the showers, rehearsals, and, best of all, the wedding! The excitement back then was enough to take my breath away. It was truly a magical time for me, and your mom let me experience it as that. I'm sure I was a pesky nuisance, but I was included anyway. Watching your mom walk down the aisle in that beautiful dress, carrying gardenias, is a picture I still see clearly in my mind.
With the birth of each of you, your mom understood and accepted my longing to be a part of your arrivals. When Rose was born, only adult visitors were allowed in the maternity ward. A few strings were pulled and I was hidden behind a friendly nun's habit and smuggled in to see my first niece! I got to hold each of you within minutes of your arrivals at home and was always welcome to visit you. Some of my best childhood memories involve you kids and summer afternoons at your house with your mom. Though she was incredibly busy with all of you and the "gender specific tasks" of the day, she still took time to make coffee and sit and talk with me. I'm sure she could have used a nap instead!
I believe your mom influenced my decision to teach young children too. Being encouraged to help with you and loving you kids so much helped me appreciate and cherish young children. I almost had a small class with all of you! Then, during one college year summer, your mom and Alma helped me get a job working at a nursery school. They knew someone who knew someone, and so I got the position. That experience really finalized my decision to work with little ones.
As your mom and I grew older, you grew up and, of course, all our lives changed. As people do, we got too busy, lost some connections, made others, and went in many directions. Yet, reflections of the past will always include your mom for me. I won't forget her. I hope knowing I, along with others, remember and appreciate her contributions to our lives will help bring comfort to you all.
I love you.
Aunt Lorrie##imported-begin##Lorrie Peterson##imported-end##