Wednesday, November 24, 2010
Aunt E was one of the greatest highlights of my life. She was like candy (or more like sugared cereal, but still!). Summer visits to her place when I was a kid are etched upon my heart. I recall these memories so often. She would let us have any kind of cereal. I remember spending hours agonizing in the cereal aisle trying to decide. And whatever kind of soda pop we craved, we could have as well. She let me wear my hair anyway I wanted. Aunt E loved animals, her beloved Cye, Eileen's Pyjr, Eddie's Champ, and Papaw's Shawn-Tom. One of my many favorite memories is visiting with Granny Applegate and petting the horses, Lila, Sasha, Honey and Sugar. (And these are just the pets with actual names! There were always plenty of strays around that Aunt E could not help but care for.) I've always given credit to my Granny Walpole for teaching me to cook. I guess I should give Aunt E credit for teaching me to serve. No one ever left her table hungry. For years she and Papaw fed a small congregation after church. I had the honor of running around to collect drink orders. Bro. Bingaman would order "Adam's Ale" (water, I'd come to learn!). Aunt E would put on a big pot of her famous beans. Aunt E cared for people as well. She took good care of her mother, Grandma McKinzie. She helped provide a place to live for her sister. After Papaw passed away, she kissed his photo every day. Three pecks, "I" "love" "you". She raised two of the most beautiful people I've known: Eddie and Eileen. Eileen, you were an incredible daughter to her. I remember you sharing with me during one of our "life talks" we would have when I was a teenager. You said you had come to realize that one of your biggest purposes in life was to take care of your mother. And you took care of her with so much grace and respect. You did everything you could for her when she was really sick...and when she was "not really sick" you were so patient and kind. I am so thankful for Aunt E and for my profound and indelible memories. I love you Aunt E. xo, Kimberly Applegate
