Monday, December 30, 2024
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Aunt Deena was the best Godmother a gal could ever have. We shared so much time together. Our last six months were invaluable and a blessing. My hope is that I gave Aunt Deena a purpose, meaning and joy in her last months. Our Poetry Club was a true gift. This club involved Aunt Deena and her dear college friend Rose Marie, both friends of my mom. We completed our book just two weeks ago, thanks to Aunt Deena's organization, creativity, diligence and in her words, "pledge" to me. We chatted for hours almost every day, sometimes 2, 3, 4 times a day. The three of us had club meetings over the phone using call merge! She never gave up learning. What a blessing this time was to both of us.
I remember, with fondness, my last "solo" visit with my beloved Aunt Deena on November 17, 2024. That day will be forever etched in my mind, heart and soul. She greeted me at the door with her cream colored art apron with little ruffles near the neckline. There were splashes of paint across the front of her apron. She sat in her chair near the entrance of her art studio as I arrived at her cozy, warm and inviting apartment in Sleepy Hollow on the Hudson River.
How I wish I could wrap myself in that apron and feel her presence again.
I had spent from 11:00 AM -7:00 PM with her discussing our poetry, her illustrations-paintings, eating lunch, cakes and sipping iced tea. We exchanged gifts of paper dolls, hearts, coral lipstick and lip gloss. (even little treats for our cats!)
We organized our poetry and photos of her artwork- corresponding to all 84 poem topics, while having interesting discussions and some private-inspirational conversations which I will always treasure and never forget. Aunt Deena left me with many messages from her heart. By the end of our visit, she was concerned that I was tired. (I had 1 hour 1/2 drive home) So......she offered me a frozen chocolate covered banana! We both had fun eating them at the table. It was PURE JOY. We had so much fun. Even her cat Willow sat with us and had a snack. Aunt Deena had a such a twinkle in her eyes! We truly connected. Aunt Deena was the ultimate, special Godmother AND friend.
I hugged and kissed her several times before leaving for home. As I left, I gave her one more glance. Her hands folded in her lap, she had the face of kindness, caring, grace, beauty and motherly love which I will never forget. I will always remember that moment.....and the art apron with ruffles gracing her neckline.
I love you Aunt Deena. Thank you for being such an important mentor in my life.
May you rest now.
Love,
Beverly Ann DeFabiis
