When I was a little kid, I used to go to the house in South Holland. Unfortunately you guys had kitties. And I was afraid of those kitties. And my aunt Barbara never failed to take my hand and bring me in the house. Otherwise, I would’ve stood out there on the porch forever. Those cats did not like me very much or else they thought I was cat bait! Aunt Barbara knew. I remember feeling so safe with her hand in mine.

Sometimes you guys would play real rough outside. So I would go inside and aunt Barbara would give me an apron and I would help her bake or cook. She always made me feel important. Not like some dumb little kid. But like her little helper, I will never forget those times with her. They were special and just between the two of us.

My aunt Barbara was one of the most elegant, beautiful woman I ever knew. I always looked up to her. I hate to say it, but you guys know I’m a fashion designer, and I always loved the way she dressed. Everything was put together. And even then, being a little kid, I recognized her style. I know she worked every day and she walked home from the station to the station and then she took care of you guys. All five of you. She was something. She did it all and she made it look so easy. I don’t remember her ever losing her cool. I don’t remember her ever shouting or getting mad. I just remember this elegant woman who took care of me like I was one of her own. She knew how to nurture a child. Which, if you ask me, is one of the best skills that you could ever have. I loved my aunt Barbara so much. Even in the end, she had a sense of humor. I asked her how she was and she said” she wasn’t dancing yet., but she was planning to the moment she felt better”. well, I think she’s dancing now.