Thinking of Family

 Yesterday we got devastating news, my Aunt Cathy suddenly passed away.

How?

Why?

This aunt was my moms younger sister.  She was the one that had a sarcastic comment for everything, with a smile that made you think it couldn't possible be her that said it. When I asked my aunts what they did to help with hot flashes she said, "Eat more sugar".  😂 

Mom, Cathy, Peggy, Karen

She knew how to lighten any moment and make you laugh.  Cathy could even get my mom laughing. I love hearing the stories about her sewing dresses before a dance because she couldn't show up in the same dress she wore the last time.  Or how much she hated to be told what to do, especially by her older sister (my mom).  She LOVED her family.  She gave all that she had even to the last minute to help, love and support her children, grandchildren and great grand babies.

My Aunt Cathy and Uncle Gregg had a special love.  They were always together.  My Aunt would remark how frustrating it was, but deep down we all knew she wouldn't have had it any other way.  These two loved each other deeply.

Uncle Gregg & Aunt Cathy

When my Uncle passed in 2022 we all worried about my Aunt and how she would get along.  Could she fill her life without my Uncle.  She tried.  She filled each day with her family and dear friends.  It did not replace how much she missed him or wanting to be where he was.

Yesterday my sweet Aunt and Uncle were reunited.  How sweet and joyful that reunion must have been.  

Today I've been thinking about my family.  The importance of relationships.  Time spent together.  And the wonderful blessings of eternal families. Our families need us most, but we need them too.  Out of love for each of us Heavenly Father placed us in families that can be sealed together forever.

April 1958

I have the very best aunts. They were tremendous support when my mom passed and as I've tried to navigate life since without her.  More than that they have been active parts of my life from my birth.  I have many memories of eating ice cream, family dinners, holidays, crazy treks up the Multnomah Gorge in a motor home, Lake Shasta vacations, swimming pool adventures, too many family funerals, graduations, weddings and everything DISNEY.  These three women are truly special.  

Heaven received a special person yesterday.  I know there is no other place she would rather be than with my Uncle Gregg.

Love you Aunt Cathy.