Farewell to a Beloved Aunt

It’s been difficult to know how to approach this resumption of our blog. If we use this semi-public forum to acknowledge the death of a family pet, how can we fail to mention the untimely death of an adored family member? N and I have made two trips to Ottawa in the past month, one, gratefully, for a final visit with his truly beloved aunt, and the next, heartbreakingly, to attend her wake and celebrate her life with her children, daughter and son in law, grandchildren, friends, devoted students, and extended family. She leaves a gaping hole in so many lives, but especially in those of her tightly knit family. She taught us some excellent lessons, by example, about how to live life well, to the fullest, and on one’s own terms. We will miss her so much.