Wednesday, June 8, 2022
I remember Patty as this mysterious, adventurous world traveler, and quite clever cousin. We were of similar age but only saw each other occasionally due to our parents living in different parts of the world. I used "mysterious" in that, me being a boy, interacting with this cousin, who was a girl, was unfamiliar territory! I have fond memories of those special visits that occurred throughout our childhood. There was one visit where we went horse back riding. Patty was a pro - smooth and graceful guiding her horse on the trail. This was in complete contrast to my own experience where I was bounced around unmercifully. Looking back it was an early taste of humility (and reality) seeing that my cousin, a girl, could do things better than me, a slightly older boy.
My admiration and respect for Patty grew over the years. I knew I was no match for her wits on classic literature, most other topics on the arts, and certainly on horseback riding! I hold my memories of her dear and grateful for the life lessons she provided.
