My Aunt Ruth, who is close to 90 years old, came up to visit me on Saturday, with her daughter. She is my mother's oldest sister, one of only two left from all of mom's siblings. I have not seen her in at least 5 years or more.

There always was a very close resemblance among the sisters, but it never really struck me until she walked in my door, all 90 some lbs of her, at about 4'8", apple red cheeks on fair skin, soft downy halo of white hair covering her head, schoolmarm glasses (she's never lost THAT look) perched on her nose and a ready smile and hug of greeting.

I had to catch my breath for a moment, then, when she spoke too....if I let myself go, it would've been my mother speaking and hugging and smiling. Too tender of heart, yet, to let myself do that. So, I stepped back, after the greetings, and saw her for who she was, my beloved matriarchal Aunt Ruth....old, tough, optimistic, and precious in her own way, still going strong and still an inspiration in her own way. Makes me thankful for all of the old matriarchs of our family, leading by example in strong perseverance.

kat