This is for my sister Karen. She always wanted me to be a writer and now - here - I guess I sort of will be!?
She had the audacity (or was it foresight!) to die at 45. The rest of us are still here slogging through the mire of what used to be our brains while she is forever young. Where's the justice???
Women have traditionally died young in my family. My sister Toot and I, however, have broken the mold; she just turned 72 this week and I will be 64 next month. We both agree that, had we known we would live to be old we would have done things very differently!
Toot would have stopped smoking long BEFORE she was diagnosed with emphysema. She'd be having a lot more fun if she didn't have to tote around her own oxygen supply. Activity is severely restricted when you're tethered to a machine.... She used to be a lot of fun when she could breathe and walk and laugh out loud! Would that we could have those days again.
I would have put away money. Who knew??? Imagine what I could do if I had PLANNED for retirement?? Others did. People all around me were squirreling funds away for a rainy day but not me. I assumed I would fall prey to the family pattern and you know what happens when you ASS-u-me!?
Yes, that's right, you live from hand to mouth.
Anyway, here's to Karen, God bless her pointed head.
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About Me
- Jude K.
- Family: I've been married for 44 years to a man who has no equal. We have three grown daughters and five grandchildren. I also faux-grandma two of my nephews; my sister died too young to know them. I have lots of immediate and extended family who are all a very important part of my life as well. EVERYBODY eventually shows up in Sarasota, thank goodness! Occupation: I'm a retired French and English teacher who found a niche in innercity Detroit and Highland Park, MI. Geography: I grew up in MA, lived in MD,CT,MI. I lived my adult life in and around Detroit. We retired to Sarasota, FL three years ago. UPDATE: On January 24, 2009 my darling husband, healthy as a horse, simply dropped dead at our home. He died instantly fresh from the shower and wearing clean underwear. (Mothers everywhere will appreciate that bit of news!?) My daughters and I, their children, all relatives and friends are devastated by this stunning blow.
found it. Very excellent post. ;) I was just thinking about how much she wanted you to be a writer and here I am writing all the time. Life's funny isn't it?
ReplyDeleteGood stuff, Mom. Keep it coming! xo
ReplyDeleteThe best start to a blog, ever! Do you have a photo of Karen that you could post? I know I've seen one, but it was back at the Bishop St. home.
ReplyDeleteA nice tribute to Karen ... and you need to be recognized for all your work with children and families ... we are very proud of you, too!!!!!
ReplyDelete