My sister Martha would have been 63 today. I would have made her a beautiful cake and bought her a pretty present. But she’s been gone for almost 30 years, so I will drink some bubbly for her (not the Frexinet she favored, but what we have will do), remember the good times and be grateful that her husband, who still misses her, has built a good life for himself and that their daughter, who never knew her, has grown up to be kind, smart, and happy.
Martha was stubborn, bold, and always open to an adventure. In high school, she ran away from home with a boyfriend and for a while took up with some questionable characters before deciding that she wanted more choices in life. She came home and went to community college where she learned some valuable computer skills, and went on to earn more than I ever did. She lived with us in Toledo for a couple of years and was a much-loved aunt to my kids (imagine first sip of alcohol, first tattoo, learning to ride a bike – just imagine!). She grew up. After a few years, in my back yard, wearing our mother’s wedding dress and carrying flowers from the Toledo Farmers Market, she married our friend Steve, who was a good balance for her. They had fun together, traveled, and eventually became parents. Martha was a good mom to their daughter Gina for the almost 2 years they had together.
I miss her.
We all miss her that knew her.
I met you shortly after you lost your sister. I have enjoyed knowing her through you and your girls. I am glad to have met her lovely daughter a few times and happy that you and John continue to be friends with Steve. Thank you for sharing.
Paula – thank you for helping our little sister through one of the roughest times in her too short life and helping her become the woman she became.
Aww. I somehow didn’t realize Martha and I where born the same year, I will be 63 in April, I remember Martha’s wedding day and then how it was that last day after her sudden death. Thirty years….
Sisters who have passed, leave a special void in our hearts! I also lost my little sister, and sympathize with you! We are left with such sweet memories of many special moments spent together.
To Martha.
May her memory be a blessing.
Martha was special to all who knew her. She had so much to offer all of us. I think of her and you and Francine often. Glad to hear that Steve and Gina are still in touch with you and John. Bob and I send our love and hugs. We miss you and Francine. John too and never got to know your girls.
Such a sweet tribute to your sister. I remember her well, and her light was only given a short time here on earth but her spirit lives on with you.
Losing Martha was a childhood trauma that I am not sure ever really healed. It taught me (and Sam and Jo, I think) the terrible lesson that you can lose even the most “alive” and vibrant people, even a sibling, with no warning.
That loss did help us appreciate each other. After growing up fighting constantly, my sister and I have an especially close relationship. I owe that in part to the fact that I don’t take it for granted.
Love you mom and thanks for helping us remember her.
*P.S. I think your dad gave me my first sip of beer 😉