My kids always put their favorite things in order; first favorite, second favorite, third... I was no different really, and as a little girl Marilyn was my "first favorite aunt on Mom's side." To me she was always beautiful, smelled pretty, made me feel very special and was married to Uncle John. ;) I've always been a compulsive de-clutterer, and through all the cleaning binges I could never get myself to throw out gifts I had received from my aunt Marilyn. They are all so unique and I can literally feel the thought she had for me when she got them for me. Many of them are garage sale items, just special. When I became a mother I sought her advice for many things. She advised me through my postpartum depression after my 2nd baby. My kids grew to love her as their own aunt. I always deeply appreciated how supportive she and John have been to my mom, and it was obvious they are sisters, they are so alike. I remember how my mom and Aunt Marilyn would get together and they'd just laugh and giggle like little school girls. Aunt Marilyn was really funny to me. She was also so fun, and she put on the best parties and family events. She always had the most fun games and best food. I have long missed those family gatherings. Marilyn has the most selfless love for her children, and they and John were the most important thing to her. This was clear to me and in my eyes the most admirable and important thing to remember about her.
