My Grandma’s Generation

I so thoroughly enjoyed my time spent visiting with my great aunt Edith and her daughter Alexis, my first cousin once removed, that I lost track of time and almost missed my bus back to the city. I so wish I could have stayed with them all day, as Edith often says: family is everything. While I tend to agree with that sentiment, I acknowledge that good friends are like family and quite often replace family members if irreconcilable differences take hold - which I’m happy to say does not apply here.

My grandparents, Sophie and Leon Lisnow

Sitting and talking with Edith, who’s 96 and sharp as a tack, takes me right back to the most delicious memories of my grandma Sophie. I adored my grandma and was partially raised by her and my grandpa Leo, my maternal grandparents. They took me everywhere, from memorable lunches that became a ritual at their favorite local diner, to Vermont to visit my uncle

and cousins. Many of our local visits were to Edith and Harry’s house in Yonkers, and I loved getting into my grandpa’s car and driving from the city to the suburbs. The times spent with my grandparents and by extension, Harry and Edith were so completely fulfilling for me at this age. I think it’s funny to recall now, how happy I was with these 4 elders when I was 6. I suppose it was partly to do with the fact that I was so cared for by them, and being the only little person present at these times, they could spoil me - and I loved it.

Being with Edith again recently after all these years, the last time I saw her was at Harry’s funeral 5 years ago and the time before that had been at least a decade, was balm for the soul. Her generation was, still is, so alive and inquisitive and elegant. Those of us who are lucky enough to have our loved ones alive at age 96, are fortunate indeed, for so many gifts come

from spending an afternoon in their presence. Thank you Aunt Edith, I love you.