New York

I spoke with My aunt Laura yesterday. It was the first time we’ve had to speak since Grandma died. I received a big package from New York with a copy of an old photo of my Grandma’s parents, a copy of her funeral service, a copy of her obituary (very well written!) and a gorgeous picture of Grandma when she was a young woman. My uncle picked it out. The people running the funeral services tried to talk my aunt out of using it, she said, “I loved the picture, but it was my brothers pick. Had it been my pick, I probably would’ve backed down.” Needless to say, my uncles picture became the prayer card for Grandma, and I have a few copies propped up around my house, so I can be surrounded by Grandma’s bright smile.

That little tid-bit says so much about my favorite aunt. She is the most selfless, generous compassionate person I know. My wish for her is that she take some time for herself, start pouring some of that famous love for others over her own self.

One other thing, I had never seen a picture of my great grandparents before. Besides the fact my great grandmother was a petite knock out, appearing decades younger than she had to have been in the photo, my Grandma’s dad, was a handsome, handsome man. Tall strapping, silver haired and white. (I did not know that!) They settled in Harlem where my grandmother was born. How cool is that though, really?

One more thing.

My aunt is sick.
She’s going for tests.
She’s having the same symptoms that both my Dad, Granny and Grandma had before they died. Shooting pain down her legs, and a general malaise.


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