Welland Canal and Remembering Loved Ones at Easter

My mother and brother passed away years ago, at this time of year. They were always there for me. Never abandoned me. They loved me so much.

I miss my mother's 7am wake up calls and the endless lectures about how to be a 'real' lady. Even when it seemed I could do nothing right in her eyes, she continued to love me. She brought me food and treats all the time. She always thought of me and always gave me little gifts from her flea market or thrifting hauls.

My brother, Leroy, was always around me as we grew up. Mom made him take me everywhere with him. As a teen he brought me to my first movie, Grease. That was so special to me, but boys from his school made fun of him for being with his sister.

"Who cares what they think!" was all he said. I knew he was mad, but he stayed by my side and walked me home. I always felt very protected by Leroy.

He brought me to the Welland canal with him every day during the summer. The guys on the ships passing through Lock 3 would throw coins and treasures to us. Leroy would buy me a snack and tell me to wave at the ships. And thus began his coin, stamp and flag collection.

He was an entrepenuer. So was my mother. They knew when and where to find a good deal. They were the best thrifters and flea marketers I have ever known. And they loved me. I really miss their beautiful, unconditional love.

Here is what my son and I did for them at Easter.