Happy Birthday Aunt Lois

If you want to understand today,
you have to search yesterday.
Pearl Buck

Today is a milestone birthday for Aunt Lois, but I won't say the number because you wouldn't believe me anyway. Aunt Lois is the eldest of my father's two sisters, sisters who are very different but are still very close.

Aunt Lois on her wedding day (I love the dresses!)

In the past few years, I have come to know Aunt Lois much better through on line correspondence and in person. We are alike in many ways, in looks, temperment and interests. She is the family historian and has worked to keep the extended family in touch with each other. She has scanned old photos and kept track of events in past generations. Recently she gave me a box of letters including several from her grandfather which were written when he worked on the Panama Canal project in the early 20th century. She understands that generational history lives on in each of us even though we may not always recognize its influence until we are older.

Aunt Ruth, me, Dad, Aunt Lois in 1976

Aunt Lois is wise, patient, honest and insightful. I appreciate the time I have spent with her and the things she has taught me. Her life has had its ups and downs but this has not made her bitter nor made her lose faith in God. She is a special lady indeed.

Happy Birthday!!