There are few experiences, if any, that surpass the comfort of being with one's family. On the flip side, there are also few experiences that can be more taxing and stressful. It's really a mixed bag for all of us, don't you think? After spending a week in Chicago with my extended family, I'm happy to say that I'm feeling nicely nestled in the former state. I've shared much with my Aunt Fran and all my Riley cousins, and the loss of my parents causes me to hug them even tighter so we can enjoy whatever time we have together. Though there are memories too abundant to share, I must indulge in just one. In 1964 the entire Riley clan traveled west to visit us in the Bay Area. With 5 children in tow, it was important to limit the kids to one box each (not counting clothes) in order for everyone to have space in the old Ford wagon. Having the sound mind of a 14 year old girl (as did I), my cousin Mary Fran chose to fill her box with records...Chad and Jeremy, The Beatles, Dave Clark Five, etc. What better way to spend our time together than swooning over the music of the British Invasion!
I marvel at my Aunt Fran's life. She is 80.5 going on 60. I don't know anyone with a richer life than she. She teaches senior aerobics, attends Mass every morning at 6:30, reads, knits and bakes like crazy, and still finds time to be my Godmother Extraordinaire...WOW!
Heirlooms we don't have in our family. But stories we've got. Rose Cherin
