A few weeks ago I attended a nephew’s first birthday party in Algonquin and saw many family members I haven’t seen in years. But, what struck me the most was how strongly it made me remember those family members that were no longer there. The ones that would have been there to mark this special birthday, but couldn’t because they passed away. When I saw one cousin I was reminded of another cousin I was very close to who died over twenty years ago. They had been best friends and in my minds eye, I can still see them together. My cousin-in-law asked me how long I’ve been married which led me to ask how long she and my cousin were married. He passed away many years ago, but it made me remember that they seemed like the perfect couple and I told her that. But, what was most meaningful to me was seeing a woman whose son I had dated many years ago and who died many years ago from a concussion he suffered in a car accident. It brought back memories of what could have been, but wasn’t for many reasons we’ll never understand. It also made me think of my own parents who died way too long ago. They both would have celebrated their birthdays that week.
Although I miss those that are gone, I did have a great time at the party – talking and celebrating with my family and catching up on old times and introducing my son to some family members he never met. I also had a great time remembering those that weren’t there. Although they weren’t there in person, they were there in spirit through the memories of those who loved them the most. It was a nice reunion and it made me realize that our loved ones are never gone as long as we remember them.
I agree with you. I started attending family reunions because I missed my parents and grandparents. Just talking with others helps to keep their memories more vividly alive.
Hi Suzette. Thanks for the comment. I appreciate it! LB
Hi Linda,
Although I don’t have any close relatives that live nearby I too remember those now passed with fondness.
I also remember friends, some of whom visited me over the years. You, Brock and David are part of that group.
Have a great summer. I will think of you when I take a dip in the pool later. haha
Diane
Thank you Diane. We consider you a good friend too. I wish I were there to take a dip in the pool with you. LOL. Have a great summer too!
Linda
I forgot to mention that I do have family they live in the UK and Ireland. All of my Brooklyn family over the years have passed.
A few years ago a friend, Gail, joined me on a trip to Ireland for the celebration of family. It was a national event but specifically celebrated in many of the local towns.
We attended mass with two of my first cousins who visited from the UK. Later we got together outside the church and later at a pub with a number of first cousins (six of us in total) and many 2nd cousins, the latter all live in Ireland. Even visited my grand-parents farm and left flowers on their grave sites .
I did visit Chicago years ago and went to the Navy Pier and the Aquarium with friends. Ended up in a Chicago hospital with a minor stroke but will not get into that here.
Hugs, Diane
Hi Diane. It’s wonderful that you got to connect with your family in Ireland! I know that’s a once in a lifetime opportunity. I went to Austria with my aunt and uncle many years ago and was able to meet the people my Dad knew when he lived there (people that he talked about all the time). I even met one of his old girlfriends….amazing! And I got to walk the farm fields he worked back then. My Dad couldn’t be with us, because he passed away many years before, but he was definitely there in spirit. He always told me if I ever get a chance to travel to Europe I should go to Austria, because it is so beautiful with the Alps. He was right, it was very beautiful.
It’s too bad your trip to Chicago was ruined by a stroke and hospital stay.
Take care and be well,
Linda
Hi Linda,
I just discovered your blog via LinkedIn! I am really enjoying ready the articles and they are bringing tears to my eyes thinking about life years ago in the Avondale neighborhood.
I hope you, Brock and David are doing well.
We really need to catch up. It’s been too long!
Your ol’ friend, Lydia
Hi Lydia!
Thanks for reading my blog and reminiscing with me. We’re all doing well- hope you and Al, your mom and Martha and her family are well. Let’s talk soon.
Great to hear from you!
Linda