Goodbye Marlene

I have to admit, as far as mother-in-laws go, I got pretty lucky. I had to remind myself that we first met by me emerging from the woods to their house for some family event on a motorcycle, with my leg immobilized in a cast from a softball injury, useless and propped up on the highway peg. I can imagine the thoughts that crossed her mind wondering who Sherry had gotten herself mixed up with. Thankfully, she gave me a chance to prove myself and hoping I passed the test. I think I did.

Soon after Sherry and I married and we settled into our first home in “downtown” Lakeville, we decided to wallpaper our living room. Wouldn’t you know Marlene had some experience and offered to assist. Since Sherry was working evenings then, it was just me and Marlene so I was a bit apprehensive. Thankfully, my fears were unfounded and I was able to spend a few quality hours with her talking about everything under the sun, where we really had the opportunity to get to know each other well. I’ve only appreciated her more and more as we all progressed through the years – much of them with Sherry and Marlene operating the tailoring/monogramming shop in town.

They are all good memories so I’ll certainly miss her but will be forever grateful that she didn’t initially judge me from that first meeting and instead welcomed me into their family and laid the groundwork for a lasting bond that has survived over 40 years now!

Marlene passed early this morning. Thankfully, Sherry was able to return to MN over a week ago to be with her through the transition. I hate being away from all of the hugs but it’s the same as when my mom passed a few months ago. Someone needs to stay behind and care for the critters and now is my turn. But I anxiously await Sherry’s return home.