Thursday, February 18, 2021
Memories of my sister.
Betty was a 1940s teenager and being ten years older than me was very much my role model. In my eyes she led a glamorous life taken up with cinema- going, dances, motor - bikes and air shows. I scrutinised her clothes, her hair style, her magazines, especially "Picturegoer".
I still love that decade, particularly the music. Can anyone remember The Ink Spots or The Andrew Sisters? And what about the great Glenn Miller? I still play his music whilst doing the ironing!
I have a lot to thank Betty for in the example she set me: her love of books and music, her interest in current affairs and politics. Until a couple of years ago our weekly phone calls were largely taken up with what was going on in the world. I must have been one of the best informed people on North American politics this side of the Atlantic. In her better days Betty had a sharp mind and a retentive memory. Often she entertained me with stories of our family history.
The phone calls have ceased now but the memories live on. I think of that pretty young girl with eyes the colour of speedwell, so intensely blue, and her laughter with that distinctive giggle in her voice - never to be forgotten.
Now I am left with a huge hole in my life that cannot be filled. And Betty has embarked on a journey that we, as yet, cannot share.
Go joyfully, dear sister. You are well loved.
Ann
