Jan 17/10: My cousin

Jan 17/10: My cousin, originally uploaded by susanvg.

It would take a lifetime to tell the story and stories of my wonderful cousin. Although we are more than 30 years apart in age, she is my first cousin. Our grandmother had three children, the oldest of whom was N's mother, before being widowed. My mother was from her second marriage. N grew up in Romania and when she found herself an orphan at 16, she stayed one more year to finish high school and then immigrated to Canada to be with our grandmother. N and my mother were only 5 years apart in age and soon became very close and over the years as I became an adult our relationship became one of friendship too.

My cousin has always worked in jobs that brought her in touch with people and at 91 continues to volunteer and brighten people's days. A story teller, avid reader, caring person - she is a role model for aging well.