Monday, August 9, 2010
For over a year, Charlene and I lived together, building a friendship that was very special to both of us. I think what I reflect back upon, is how loving and caring Charlene was. She quickly became part of our family, and was always there when a one of us needed a little support. When my brother Frank was hospitalized, it was Charlene that quickly dropped everything to sit by my sister in law's side, providing her with comfort and reassurance throughout his stay. She was there for all of us, doing whatever she could to make a hard time feel a little easier. Some days it would be to care for my mother, who was bed ridden. Charlene often sat by her bed side, and chatted with her, or assisted in making her more comfortable. If my younger brother Gary felt a little frustrated by life, Charlene was always there to support him, and give him moral encouragement.
I remember last summer, when the two of us attempted to get the pool ready, and me not being able to attach the fitting to the jet. No matter how hard I tried, I spent endless and fruitless amounts of time, failing at connecting the eye to the socket. Suddenly Charlene left the yard, and minutes later appeared in a tank top and shorts, and jumped into the cold water. Within five minutes, the attachment was made, and Charlene smiled with pride at her accomplishment. Cold and wet, but..she did it! We spent hours giggling and making fun of one another, as I beat her butt in the card game Five Hundred Rummy. Her, vowing to one day turn the tables and beat mine! Charlene and I spent many hours, sharing our secrets, hopes, fears and dreams. We vowed that one day she and I would play the roles of "The Golden Girls" and retire in Florida. We spent a lot of time, talking about how nice it would be and the things that we could do together as friends and companions throughout our twilight years. Charlene was my friend, and I know that she's smiling down from Heaven, with appreciation of the times that she and I shared. I know that I am grateful for that time, and will always hold the memories of Charlene dear to my heart. In life, there's always a fair share of good and bad that makes it's way into our memories. Life isn't perfect, but sometimes, it's nice to look back at some of the good moments that we shared with someone special. Charlene certainly was a part of those good times and special memories. Thank you Charlene!
