Looking Back

On Bessie's funeral day I received word that my Aunt Jessie had died. She is my mothers sister. Kari and I went to her viewing last night in Midvale. I have to tell you that there were cousins there that I would not recognize if I saw them on the street, or anywhere else! There are a few that I knew, the ones we played with as kids and have seen at other funerals and weddings. But, there were some that I had no clue who they were. I feel bad that the family has been apart for so long. My kids didn't know any of the extended family that were from that side.
My mom had 12 brothers and sisters, so the families are all over the place. It's just that as kids we got to go visit and see them and it was great to know them. Now, I don't know them anymore. I felt bad as I walked through the line, I knew my cousins that were there and was glad to see them, but sad at the same time because they really don't know me either! Aunt Jessie didn't have kids, so she spoiled all of us when she would visit. She was little in stature but big in heart. I know that she appreciated the family that took care of her and watched over her home and belongings.
We are celebrating my mother and her twin- Aunt Myrts birthday on Saturday- They will be 80 on May 20th. There are only three of their family left. Their younger sister, Aunt Betty lives in St. George. I can see changes coming in our family, too. It's hard to see these things and not be able to do anything about them. I just hope that when the time comes I will know what to do to help my family through whatever happens.
I really hope that my kids and their cousins keep in touch and I hope that my grandchildren stay friends even after they are grown and moved away! They all mean more to me than I could ever say. I pray that they KNOW it!