Chris and MJ,
Your mom and I go way back. I remember babysitting you, Chris, when you were tiny and your parents wanted a night out. You and I kept each other entertained for the night and when they got home they surprised me with a beautiful blouse as a thank you. I had not expected anything at all. I went camping with you too, when you were still in a high chair. I enjoyed the stories they told me about both of you growing up and your escapades. They always had a humourous slant to the way they told stories.
Your mom was a wonderful cook. I came over one night and she had prepared ribs on the grill with a dry rub. I had never had them that way and they were so good. She seemed to have a knack with flavors. She made me an egg sandwich once in the kitchen in Oakridge and it was the same - and then again with simple rasberry jam on hearty rye bread. The butter dripped through the bread as I ate it and I was on Cloud 9. These small things delighted me and I felt warm and welcome in her kitchen.
Your mom was a bridesmaid in my wedding and was deeply involved in the preparations. We had our 'colours done' in Grandma's kitchen in preparation and your mom and I were both 'winters!' This lead to a shopping bond - and we both loved color. I look back at many photos and there we are in our blue-based colors, looking fabulous of course. Do you remember the Holly Hobby dress your Stewart Grandma made for you to wear at my wedding MJ?
Your mom and I went on a cruise together with Grandma and your mom gave me packing tips. Always have your PJs at the top so when you arrive late you don't have to dig for them. She was also amazing at folding things so they were perfectly lined up and fit beautifully. These are little things I know, but sometimes those are the things that make you smile.
I have another memory of us together in church for some reason. I suspect we were there for something your Grandma Stewart had arranged. They passed the offering dish around the congregation and your mom looked at me and pretended to drop her credit card in. Well that got us giggling and we almost had to remove ourselves we ended up laughing so hard.
I know you will miss having your mom around. My wish for you is that you too have little warm memories pop up to help fill the spot she has left behind. I am sure I will continue to see parts of her in you both.
Sending you hugs,
Aunt Jane
