Aaron Merrell
Growing up, Kim wasn't just a cousin to me, she was my high school buddy. I am so grateful for the influence she was in my life, particularly as we grew up together in our teen years. It was always fun walking past her classroom and hearing her shout out her nickname for me, "Ernie!"
During that time, Kim and I shared the same favorite movies, especially "Goonies" and "Three Amigos." I loved seeing that "Three Amigos" was still her favorite so many years later.
Growing up with Kim taught me patience, empathy, and the importance of pure love, especially for those different from me. When I saw her a couple of years ago, after not having seen her for many years, I wasn't surprised but still a little sad that she didn't remember me. But I look forward to the day when we are reunited, she can call me Ernie again, we can remember the old days in Milton-Freewater, and sing the "Three Amigos" theme song together.