We learned some pretty devastating news this week. Our Aunt Suzy has elected to forgo dialysis. It’s a matter of time before she heads to heaven. It’s been a battle for her the last few months. She’s a tough cookie. The Linn blood is strong in that one. So while there is peace in her decision, it doesn’t soothe the heart ache. There have so many cherished memories from our childhood.
The large Linn Christmas. The house was bustling with family. The smell of good food made with loving hands. Numerous gifts under the tree. Aunt Suzy, as the oldest, was in the middle of all of that activity.
And let’s not forget the Linn family Turkey Bowl. Michael and I, as the youngest, were the witnesses of what can only be described as “competitive spirit”. Two brothers bound and determine to win. Cousin Troy running into a tree breaking his glasses. Quick Ty making his moves. The jeering and laughter. Aunt Suzy, quickly following Uncle Dick, out the door when it got a little over the top. Ask me where I got that competitive streak, the foundation was built here.
Family pictures, the big Linn Family was know for them. We would all be in our Sunday best, some with better memorable pictures than others. How is that Chris always looked so good. Perms, braces, loud clothes, these family portraits had it all. Uncle Norm in a perm, why yes, that did happen.
The Hawkins House was always a new adventure for us. We loved it there because there was always activity. The big Kiss posters in the boys rooms were scary yet mesmerizing. Chris throwing footballs through a tire. Brad working on his Nova. Mark coaching soccer at the YMCA. Aunt Suzy making tater tot casserole. Don’t judge. It’s delicious.
I have three really fond memories with Aunt Suzy. She took us to watch Chris pitch a tournament in high school baseball. Maybe that’s where I get my love for baseball. All I know is that Michael and I spent hours trying to pitch like Chris….often in front of Grandma’s big kitchen window.
My second memory is a Thanksgiving dinner she hosted at the house. She had made hats to wear like the Pilgrims. I just remember how much we laughed wearing those darn hats.
Aunt Suzy worked with challenged children. I remember her bringing those kids out to the farm. The joy that she brought to them is etched in my brain.
So many, really good memories. Aunt Suzy was part of what made our childhood special.
Our last trip home, we spent peaceful summer nights fishing at her home and talking. This is how I will choose to remember her. Full of life, laughing with us, asking questions about our lives. It was peaceful and perfect.
