Remembering Aunt Marian

I've tended to stay away from personal posts on this blog, but to put it frankly, this blog would not even exist if my Aunt Marian hadn't turned me onto reading when I was just a little girl. I've mentioned her here, here, and here. But Aunt Marian didn't only turn me into a voracious reader. She and my Uncle Dave were always important fixtures in my life and a source of great influence. When I was little, I thought my Aunt Marian was the smartest person in the world, and now I know that not only was she the smartest, but she was the kindest person I've ever known.

Her strength, never ending support, generosity, and gigantic heart always made me feel special and loved. She was a huge fan of The Well-Read Child and often sent books to my daughter who shares her middle name.

This afternoon, my Aunt Marian died, and I can't even describe the deep sadness I'm feeling right now.

On this Thanksgiving Evening, I am thankful that she was in my life for 31 years.

Aunt Marian...I love you, I miss you, and can't even begin to thank you for everything.