In our family, there’s an amusing anecdote that’s been told and retold over the years.
When my Aunt Irene was a teenager, she was dating a young man named, Joe.
Irene’s father (my Grandpa) was your typical protective Dad when it came to his daughter’s dating – but he also had a great sense of humor.
The story goes that one night when Joe brought Irene home from an evening out, Grandpa thought they were lingering just a little too long on the outside of the doorway.
Rather than open the door and speak to them directly about it, he put a record on the record player with the volume turned up. The loud strains of “Goodnight Irene, Goodnight Irene . . .” were just the subtle hint needed to convince the young couple it was time to call it a night. đŸ˜‰
Eventually, Aunt Irene and Uncle Joe married and had six kids and lots of grandkids. Just a couple of years ago, they celebrated their 60th wedding anniversary surrounded by loving family and friends.
Early this Tuesday morning, Aunt Irene decided she was tired of battling the illness she had developed in recent years . . . and she left us.
We were prepared, and yet we are very unprepared. Some things in life get easier the more you experience them. The death of a loved one is the exception – it’s always just as difficult as it was the time before.
When the family gathers to celebrate her life on Friday, I’m sure our hearts will be whispering: “Goodnight Irene”.
Give those you love an extra hug today,
My heart goes out to you during this time. You are correct it never gets any easier. My family is so small now, that during family gatherings I always feel a little sad that so many are missing, but I’m grateful for the chance to be with those that I love.
I loved the Goodnight Irene story, that is so cute. Take care and take some time out for yourself this weekend.
Its a cute story, Crissie. Your aunt must have had a full and loved life.
Its somehow easier to accept the death of an older person. You look back on their life and hear stories like this one and know they lived their life. Not so, with those that pass early and you think their life was cut to short.
So miss her, love her and celebrate her life and honor her by never forgetting her and retell the stories you will hear on Friday. Its a celebration of life, as it should be.
Much love to you friend.
xx, Carol
What a sweet story. I miss so many of my loved ones.
Crystal,
I send my condolences to you & your family. You are right, loss never gets easier, even when you are “prepared”.
Warm thoughts & prayers to you today.
What a lovely story! There can be no regrets for a life clearly spent loving and in love. I hope her memory brings joy to all of you even when her absence is a grief.
We’ve had a lot of loss in the last couple of years and you’re right it doesn’t get easier, you just hope that the good memories fill some of the void.
Best wishes to you and your family!
Great story. You and your family will be in our thoughts and prayers. Keep the memories alive.
Just seeing this…
What a wonderful way to honor your dear Aunt Irene. I can tell from your memories of her that she was much loved. Thanks for sharing a little bit of your family history and hope your fond memories of her help you and family make it through this sad time.
I’m so very sorry, Crystal. Sending you a hug and my love. xoxo Paulette