Linda Newton
My cousin Gail and I shared the love of reading. I don't know if it is genetic, or if her encouragement helped to develop that love. During my last conversation with her just a month ago, I advised her that one of my favorite memories of her was when she gave me "Babes in Toy Land." I kept that book until just 2 1/2 years ago when I moved. It was torn and tattered in about 5 sections so I finally pitched it .
This morning, I was feeling melancholy about her passing, and the fact that I had discarded the evidence of her wonderful gift, when I decided to double check my nursery, and see if the tossing was an inaccurate memory. Sadly, "Babes" was not there- but I came across another one of my favorite books from my childhood, "Mr. Pine's Mixed Up Signs" . Lo and behold, that was also a gift :" Linda, From Gail and John, Christmas 1964." I was 7 years old.
Gail was a cherished cousin. Despite our geographical distance, she has remained in my home and in my heart for over 68 years. She will never be forgotten.
All my love, Cousin, Linda Newton