It' s difficult to pick out a singular memory of my Aunt Sue.  

My favorites are linked to family gatherings at their house (TX, MO, WI...) The house was always decorated for the occation, food, laughter and the hustle and bustle of kids.  She never showed that she was stressed, only that she was enjoying herself and loved that everyone was there at her house.  It was in the morning or a moment before everyone came that I had my best and heartfelt conversations with her.  We talked about family and she passed on some tidbits of family history (I regret not writing them down) Stories of our Papa and Nana Dodge.  She asked about what was going on in my life, encouraged me not to be too hard on myself and always let me know that she loved me (no matter what). 

Our last real conversation was a couple weeks before she passed.  I went out to the house for a visit.  She and I went down memory lane and I told her that her widom and advice about life in general had made a huge impact on my life.   I miss her but I see her in her family: My Uncle Scott, how he took such gentle care of her.  Especially in the last days and moments here on earth.   She did that for the entire family and friends who knew her. My Cousins: Rochelle,  how she mothers her kiddos.  Some of the phrases she uses with her little ones are directly from Aunt Sue.  Ryan, there's a twinkle in his eye when he really smiles.  Aunt Sue had that same twinkle. Richard, that look of kindness and interest in every converstion that he has.  It's like you're the only person in the room at that very moment (even though you're at a famiy gathering).  She did that.   

I will miss our conversations but look forward to watching her legacy continue with her family.