The Celebration

Wednesday, November 23

I sit cozily in our warm home, sheltered from the cold, November, Oregon rain. It is dusk.

Laurie and I arrived home yesterday from our 2000+ mile driving extravaganza highlighted by The Celebration. Ever since I can remember (way back into my earliest childhood) Aunt Joan would remind everyone how she wanted the most festive party upon her passing. Her intention was: no holds bar, everyone invited, no grieving, remembered joy, good food, better stories and a grand toast to by gone times. I fully assure her that those wishes were realized, as the celebration was indeed first-rate!

When I think of Aunt Joan, I think about how our relationship evolved over the years. It stated with her being my babysitter, after all she was 19 years old when I was born.  As a youngster, she was my guide on the subways and streets of NYC – The Statue of Liberty, The Empire State Building, Radio City Music Hall, The 1964 Worlds Fair, NY Mets games, Jones Beach, Central Park and more.  As I aged, we went to Broadway plays, nice restaurants, SoHo and The Village. She took me on my first airplane trip – 1968 – to visit family in both LA and SF. She introduced me to poker and I would drive her to the newly opened Atlantic City casinos and their blackjack tables. While visiting home from the university she would not let me leave without sticking $20 somewhere on my person or in my backpack. She moved to SoCal and greatly appreciated my regular visits.  When she came to Oregon I took her on casino runs, while camping in the VW van. I recall one particular visit where I helped her lay the foundation of the famous Bank of AJ. Finally, she appointed me executor of her estate.

I will miss you, Aunt Joan…………..however, I will fulfill your wish:
“Do not lengthen my time here with undue grief.”.
Good Bye!

It feels real good for me to be home. I feel quite healthy – both physically and emotionally. I feel successful in maintaining my current delicate balance – the need to stay on top of my illness; yet still living each and every day to it’s fullest! I look forward to working out, cooking, eating well, reading and relaxing – all with the number ONE person in my life:   Ms. Laurie A. Bernstein!