Sunday, September 26, 2010

Thursday, September 23, 2010

"EVERYONE should have an Aunt Edith!!!"

I exclaimed to my hubby last night and he unhesitatingly agreed as we talked about visiting her and Uncle James. I was not expecting a call this afternoon from Scott's sister, Shelley, notifying us that our beloved (great-aunt) Aunt Edith passed away this morning.
As I sit here amongst the many tasks I need to conquer today, I felt it important to take a few moments to write my thoughts and feelings for someone so dear and special to me and to the lives of all who knew her. Unfortunately, these words cannot adequately portray my feelings nor can I verbally describe it without weeping. Aunt Edith, as Scott put it, was the grandmother-figure in his life. She had a way of making you feel special and needed. In the 17+ years that I've known her, I can honestly say that I've never known anyone quite like her...and I never will. I always felt a connection to her and could easily relate to her. Her fun, spunky, no-nonsense attitude is what drew me to her, but she also had the BIGGEST, KINDEST and most CARING heart I've ever seen. If I had to describe her in one word, I think it would be...SELFLESS. She was always so quick to help others no matter how inconvenient or burdensome it may be on her. She has a unique way of putting things into perspective for me and I will be forever grateful to her for all that she has done for me and my family. She indeed is and will continue to be a blessing in our lives.
Oh the things I'm going to miss from her... her calls, her "singing" messages she would leave on my phone, the weather report from Palm Springs and her wise words of wisdom. I know I should be happy knowing she is once again reunited with her parents and other loved ones on the other side, and to know that she's no longer in pain. Yet, I weep because Scott and I regret not being able to visit with her often since moving to Utah and I'm saddened my youngest, Malianna, never had the opportunity to meet her personally. I cry now because I miss her so much. I cry because...well, I'm just selfish and I don't want to let her go. It's hard to imagine her not there physically.
However, I take comfort in knowing she's around and I know I'll see her again. I'm thankful for the knowledge that our families can be together eternally! I'm also in deep gratitude for the Plan of Salvation and for my Savior who made it possible for us to be with not only Him and our Heavenly Father, but with our loved ones again. I appreciate and love my fabulous family, immediate and extended, and wonderful friends. Most of all...I'm grateful for Aunt Edith and I still believe that everyone should have an Aunt Edith in their lives! We love you Aunt Edith...Always!!!
Aunt Edith and Uncle James

I also think everyone should have an Uncle James!! Uncle James took wonderful care of Aunt Edith! He's amazing and we love him very much!