Ruby, Ruby

So I got the call this morning that my Aunt Ruby passed away. She’s actually my great-aunt… my late Grandfather’s little sister. For years she’s suffered from Alzheimer’s and in just the past couple of years they moved her into an Alzheimer’s home where she could be cared for properly.

My parents divorced when I was only about 18 months old and dad and I ended up moving back to the farm where my grandparents and Aunt Ruby had their houses. I spent a lot of time with Aunt Ruby and I have nothing but fond memories. I was her little helper, helping with the geese and the cattle and the garden. I can remember helping her pick blackberries because my hands were small enough that I could get the berries while avoiding the prickly thorns. She ALWAYS called me Melanie, though. Melanie is my dad’s baby sister whom had grown up living next door to Aunt Ruby. Funny thing is that it never bothered me. To this day I still answer to Melanie, too!

I loved her and will miss her but I know that she is in a better place… wherever that might be. Living with Alzheimer’s is not really living at all and I am glad she is no longer suffering. Rest in peace, Aunt Ruby.