When I was about 8 years old, I lived in the high desert in Southern California. We had 5 acres of land, most of it a field. Aunt Margaret and Uncle Jimmy lived on the other side of the field, about a mile away.We were pretty close and liked to spend time together.

I had a pony named Frosty and I rode him across the field to their house every week and Aunt Margaret taught me how to play a new card game. She taught me how to be a “good loser” by saying, “if you’re gonna cry, I’m not going to play with you.” I really wanted to play, so I sniffled, blew my nose, and stopped crying. In other words, it worked. Now I enjoy the game and Aunt Margaret and I have a good relationship as adults. 

Not only did I learn how to play Canasta, I got to spend time with Aunt Margaret.   And, of course, good memories from some 40+ years ago.

It didn’t take a lot, but Aunt Margaret’s spending time with me on a regular basis, made an impact on me and is a special memory I cherish.