Well, in the summer of 1967 - holy shit, yes 1967 - I seem to have a memory of being shuttled across to #10 Kinnoul Road, to the Bennett's house, the family that lived opposite us. This may not be my memory, but what my older sister has told me about that day - August 18th.
Debs was 7, I was 2 (that is why i don't think a true memory) when little sister Linzi decided to enter the world. Apparently we watched from the Bennett's window to see what colour blanket our dad would put up at the window of our house. Both Linzi and I were delivered by midwives at home. A pink blanket was raised to the window - another Edwards daughter had arrived.
When I look at my nephew Logan now, I see Linzi all over again as a young child. Same face, same build . . . . I can remember playing for hours at Normand Park; going to Richmond Park with the whole family; her crush on the counsellor at Butlins one year (the curly haired guy called Dave i think); her skinhead hair cut; her being told she could play the cymbals after one day on the bugle at Girls Brigade; her constant willingness to help out whoever was in need; and her undying and undeniable defence of her family and friends in any situation.
I remember walking with her at Gilliatt secondary school when our mum was coming up for School Interviews - and mum had left her hair colour on too long, and her hair matched her pink shirt, i think we both turned and ran. I remember having to get on the train to go to our dads on the other side of London, and not realizing that the station name on the front of them train was the last one on that line - and that we didn't have to wait until one with the station name we wanted came along - I think we sat there for ages . . . . . . until our big sis came to find us cos our dad had been waiting for hours at the other end.
I remember her graduating from Police college while I was pregnant with Kyle; and being so proud of her for living her dream. I was at the birth of both of my nephews, as a coach, and didn't know that my baby sister could yell that loud, or grip that hard. She was also the first one through the door when both my boys were born.
I remember her tough times with the ex, and the late night calls, and coffee chats, and calm down sessions; i remember her hugging me when i need it; i remember her being the most wonderful aunt to my boys.
I know that she has a heart of gold; has faced many a challenge but still soared to the top; is the strongest advocate Logan could ever wish for; the greatest, loving mom that Chase could ever want. She is a great Aunt, amazing friend, super sister, wonderful sister in law.
She is my baby sister. I love her, i respect her, I admire her - at times I envy her . . . . but most of all I am proud to call her my sister. Her arms are always open; her door is never closed - and once you are 'one of her mates', she will protect you to the end.
Yes, we have argued - yes we have yelled and cried; yes we have said things we shouldn't - but no matter what, no matter where, no matter when - we will be there for each other. There is a reason we are sisters . . . . . . and I love my baby sister very much.
so Happy Birthday Linzi Lou . . may this year bring you more peace, serenity, love, friendship, and everything you wish for. I love you.
No comments:
Post a Comment