Thursday, July 9, 2020
My dear Aunt Teenie -
I remember you so very fondly - thank you so much for taking care of me during a 1960s summer when Mom was in hospital in Halifax.
You taught me all about your vegetable garden: how to shell fresh peas, how to pick fresh yellow beans (still a favourite of mine) and how to enjoy perfect mashed potatoes (make a well and fill it with butter).
Your never-ending supply of pictures to colour (along with a giant Velveeta box full of crayons) kept me occupied for hours, and you were always so very, very patient.
And for years, I so enjoyed receiving your cards and letters, signed with that distinctive "Teenie" in bold print - as a teacher of young children, you never used cursive script.
Thanks for your warmth and wisdom, for your kindness, and for giving a little girl a safe place to stay, in a magical house of Royal Doulton ladies.
I remember you at that little table in the corner of the kitchen, telling my mother the entire history of a family she was trying to remember from her childhood. What a memory you had - I listened with awe.
And much, much later in my life ... I remember your kind gift of a delicious lobster dinner, and how you cleaned our clocks at 3-handed bridge - you were such a bright spark!
And now, you are reunited with Lionel, that sweet, quiet man who was taken away far too early. I am glad that you are at finally at a peace so richly deserved. Please say "hi" to all the other members of our family from me - I know they have welcomed you with open arms - the last member of the fold has come home at last.
Be at peace, my dear Teenie - you have earned your rest, and you will always be remembered with love.
With deep affection,
Cathy Jean (CJ) Lindsey (Earla's daughter)
Stratford, Ontario
