I had the marvelous privilege of seeing my Aunts and Uncles this week. Grandma Lois arranged a little reunion. We were in Uncle Vons house and a flood of Thanksgiving memories rushed over me. I could almost smell the chicken noodle soup cooking. Oh! I have some good memories of those get togethers (many years ago) with all my cousins!
Aunt Phyllis is gone now but these 6 siblings of Ethel June and Edwin Rowland (did I spell that right, mom?) still love and care deeply about each other.
They had a wonderful time (10 hours of it!) talking (bragging) about their kids and grandkids. I heard alot of "she's so smart!", "he's such a good dad", "I really love to be in their home," "they are good to us", "he's really made something of himself". Along with the worry phrases of "we are still praying," "he's a good kid but he took a wrong turn," "we still think it will be okay."
I feel that they drew strength from each other. They talked about their health and finances...the growing up times....round and round the circle they went...taking turns sharing...in good 'ole family fashion. Re-knitting their hearts and souls together. Tear and laughter. I loved being "a mouse in the corner" to a sacred occasion.
Thank you Lois for your wonderful Walker heritage and being a leader in keeping your family together.
Uncle Owen was a carpenter. I remember him having a little wooden puppet man that danced on his leg. He played the harmonica and accordian. His family is very musical. He recently had both knees replaced. He has to walk with a stroller now. Its been tuff on him.
Uncle Von always talks about money! He and his children are successful farmers and business men. At the Reunions years ago, he would give the kids quarters for prizes. He's aways been a teaser but tears up easily now a days. (Esp when he speaks of when his father left their family). He has an artificial heart and diabetis. The counter was lined with (at least) 15 bottles of pills he takes everyday. We wish him good health.
This is Von's wife, Aunt Dorthy. I love her! She is a ANGEL! She has patiently cared for her husband for many years now. She is positive, good natured, unselfish and sweet. A real star here.
Our Mom. Doesn't she look great? She has a testimony of and lives the Gospel. She loves her family and prays for all of us, everyday! She is enduring to the end, WELL! I'm really proud of her. Her upmost desire is: "no empty chairs" in heaven! Huh, mom!
Uncle Merrill is a favorite. He is a Patriarch. He was a mailman all his life. He has a heart of pure gold, eternal perspective on everything and superior spirituality. He loves everybody and always looks for the good in them. He is really a generous gem.
This is Aunt Lorna. She's the one whose legs were burnt in the fire when she was 2 years old. When I saw her walk to the car...I could tell that she has "dealt" with this affliction all her life. I thought of how Grandma June said, "You will NOT cut them off!"
Aunt Lorna is really fun to listen to. She got really sick once (Septis) and almost died. She works at a Grocery store in Rexburg and gives and gives and gives food to the students there, esp if they are family. Her love language is good food! She is such a sweetheart! She said that her husband, Sherrill, teaches handicapped adults. (wouldn't that be hard?) He has Parkinson himself.
Last but not least is little Ottie (Uncle Otis). He really made an effort to be there. He works for Von (farming) and has the sweet, easy going personality. I could tell Von really loves him.
He took good care of his brothers while we were there...helping them get around. He has just recently moved into a new house. He is a kind, patient and has a great laugh.
Aunt Phyllis has passed away. She and Elmer were temple workers. Her trademark was cleaning! We miss her!
Edwin Walker. The dad! All the siblings expressed their love and concern for him. They pray that they will be able to be sealed to him. He taught them many good principles in their life.
I love my dear Grandma June. She used to make the best doughnuts. I still remember going into her little house in Idaho Falls. She liked to crochet. She worked so hard all her life and raised a righteous posterity.
How did she endure her heartache? The task of raising 7 children alone was really insurmountable but with the help of the Lord and "paying tithing", she made it! It's humbling to think what she accomplished.
I look forward to seeing her someday.... I honor her!
Then to make everything even a little sweeter, my "big guy" held on to my hand and gave me loves while we watched sister swim.
About noon I walked into Dr. Bodily's office and watched him work on Grandma Lois teeth, (I know, this isn't a picture of Grandma Lois in the chair! ...with a 5 o'clock shadow! hah hah..that's funny, huh)
