A Change In Seasons, A Tribute To Donna Bowman Barr Phillips

A CHANGE IN SEASONS

A TRIBUTE TO DONNA BOWMAN BARR PHILLIPS

Hello~

Can you feel it? Maybe its the change in the temperature, the last of the leaves that had radiated gold now on the ground, turning a crisp brown but scenting the air with the tart spicy scent of fall leaves. Perhaps it's the smell of wood smoke from a neighbors fireplace...bringing to mind that you meant to pick up some hot chocolate today. It's almost time for carolers, they always liked a cup of cocoa after being out in the cold. But wait, do they even carol anymore? Maybe folks just post a picture of themselves caroling in their living room, then send it to all their friends and neighbors. Much more efficient.

I checked Facebook before retiring tonight. I'm a chronic insomniac due to pain in my legs the last fifteen years or so. It's worse at night, and of course, I have forgotten to pick up the sleeping pills that I hate to have to take. So, I thought I would check on things, tuck in my family and friends for the night.

Several posts down, there was one from my sister. Immediately, I got the cold chill of a premonition, it's icy finger slowly sliding down my spine. As I read the words, tears slipped silently down my cheeks. My first cousin had passed away today suddenly. Unexpectedly.

My sister and my cousin were very close. For that matter my brother and my cousins were too. It was I that had no memories like they had of visiting with them as kids in the 50's and 60's, because I wasn't around. I was the 'whoops' kid, change of life and all that. Big surprise. I have no memories of my Grandmother, or my cousins growing up. By the time I knew them they were 'big people' that had jobs, kids and a life far away from where I lived.

As the years tumbled faster and faster like the falling leaves, occasionally life would bring these cousins together. They would laugh and complete one another's sentences, remembering times spent together, lives and people I would never know. My sweet Aunt Mildred would often be there when my cousins were visiting. I would watch quietly, trying to soak in all these second-hand memories, to tack on my singular ones.

Though I have no memories of these great older folk, I have tremendous affection and sincere sadness to hear that my oldest cousin has passed away. She was always so stylish and neat when she would dash in on a visit to see my Mom and two older siblings. It was so strange to hear her quick accent as she gave 'Aunt Maxine' a big hug. I would still be reeling from hearing my Mom called 'Aunt Maxine.'

My cousin Donna was a woman to emulate. She was quick and smart and stylish. She was beautiful. She was a great businesswoman, and was wise about many things. She was in later years closer and a dear friend to my sister, who I know must really be hurting tonight. I'm glad that my sister and brother had such a close relationship and wonderful memories with her. I know my memories, albeit thin, are pleasant and kind and will be pressed warmly in my heart for always. I'm sad to see my cousin Donna go away, but know Auntie Mildred is there to hold her close now forever, and that is right and good. Rest in peace, sweet cousin.

Later,

LV, JT & FX

#tributetothedo