When I think of my Aunt Shirlene, it puts a smile on my face. There was never enough time to spend with her. That is the feeling I had after being with her. I enjoyed talking with her at the annual 4th of July swimming parties at Russ and Jeannie’s and at the Christmas parties at Jim and Debbie’s. Aunt Shirlene was easy to be with. I always felt accepted and loved by her. I wonder if she knew what a gift that was for me. Although her health was often a challenge, I find my aunt in the pictures of every important event in my life. My wedding, baby blessings, baptisms for my children and a graveside service for my premature twin boys. The most valuable memory I have of Aunt Shirlene was a series of conversations we had concerning the role of family and friends. At the time, I had a few friends that wanted me to spend more time and energy than I thought I should. I felt I had enough to do in my life just taking care of my young children, my husband, housework and finances. These friends stated that I would never have lasting friendships if I didn’t take the time now to develop them. I was perplexed. After listening for a long while, Aunt Shirlene said that she and Jay had made a conscious choice to pick time over money. They spent their time with each other and their children. She had never regretted that decision. As for friends, when I had time, she said, make new friends. It was good advice, simple, direct and to the point. We talked about marriage. She talked of her love for this man she shared her life with, what a good man he had been and because he had been so good, she wanted to change a few things about herself. There is nothing about my Aunt Shirlene that I could see that needed changing. Soon after those conversations, she went to the temple and was sealed to Jay. Every time I saw her after that her eyes sparkled and she seemed content. I wish I could describe Aunt Shirlene accurately. She was lovely. She had skin that was so evenly toned. She was such a child-friendly person; a child would feel at home around her and in her home. She had a beautiful, but not untouchable house. That was very much my Aunt Shirlene, beautiful and reachable. One could have a conversation or just be with her and both would be wonderful. I think it is difficult for me to remember sometimes that I just can’t pick up the phone and call her or get in the car and drive up the mountain to see her. How much I loved this aunt who loved me first. -Wrtitten by Her Niece, Cynthia Harmer Brooks – 2010