You died last night after a several-month battle with lung cancer. This is the devastating stuff of life and I'm having some difficulty absorbing it all - but I'm trying. You were young for these days and probably not ready to leave your three daughters, husband of 30 years and 4 grand-children. You were one of my favorite aunts. One I kept in touch with on a regular basis. One who was genuinely interested in my travels and creative projects. You were present and curious about the world around you.
I'm going to miss you a ton. I'll be looking for you in every patch of sunlight.
Memories of you:
Your smell. A mixture of American Spirit Menthols and Eternity by Calvin Klein
Two recliner chairs in your basement, one for you and one for Uncle Stevie where you'd sit and watch your soaps.
Eating peanut butter and jelly sandwiches and Doritos in your back yard.
Fonzy your dog and how it never wanted to leave your lap.
The hard boiled egg, bacon and bread crumb casserole you used to make for pot luck brunches at Grammie and Bumpa's.
The colorful pajamas you'd give to me for Christmas.
Your warm, cigarette colored voice.
The bond between you and your three daughters. Their arms wrapped around you tightly.
The way you referred to Uncle Steve as "Steven".
Conversations with you about all possible Gods and Goddesses.
