I remember Aunt Connie as a young woman full of life. As we all know she was a beautiful woman, vivacious with culinary and designing talents. I also remember her exquisite ballroom dancing with Uncle Kenneth. They were generous and taught Jadee and me how to dance. Uncle, remember you took me to the father-daughter dinner dance at the Academy of the Holy Names? Jadee and I were very close as children and I spent many nights and days with my cousins. Connie Elaine, you were such a sweet and adorable little girl! Aunt Connie was always ready to join in the fun and keep things lively. My mother Carmen was close to Aunt Connie ( sister-in-laws) and I could hear them talking on the phone for hours. Of course I wondered what they could find to talk about for so long. But I was glad they were good friends. As I grew older, my relationship also turned into a lovely friendship. We would talk on the phone and keep up on the family. We were able to have a few visits over the last 25 years and always, she was a great and gracious hostess. She always had a dinner or lunch fit for a King or Queen when we came into town. Actually I have made and served Paella because of watching Aunt Connie. Also tried my hand at Boliche. Aunt Connie loved flowers and I enjoyed sending them to her on her birthday. She blessed me by sending gorgeous Christmas arrangements. In fact, whenever I got home from work and there was a beautiful flower arrangement (perhaps for a birthday or special occasion) I could tell whether it was from Aunt Connie. It was especially large and lovely, I would know it was from Aunt Connie. Anders would say, "How do you know that?" I’d reply “because her exquisite taste show even in the flower arrangements that she sends!” Although she had more than her share of tragedy in her life, she was always positive. She looked for the good in life and in others. We will miss her and her sweet smile and sparkling eyes. Love, Kathleen and Anders