Memories of Elena

{The Raggedy Anne doll in this picture now sits in my daughter's room}


To some, July 27th is just a day like any other day. But to me and many others, it's the day we pause to think about July 27, 2009 - the day our sweet Elena passed away. Over the last two years, life has changed so much. I got pregnant shortly after Elena died, and I know how much she would have loved getting to know her niece. Frankie is 8. He's getting so big so fast, and I know he still misses Elena.

My sister was a ball of energy and whirlwind of life in one package. She had strange quirks and funny habits - like her undying, self-professed love of Billy Joel, for example, When she was in the room - you knew it. This picture makes me smile every time I see it. She was in one of her favorite places and was dressed as her alter-ego - Barbara Maloney Weintraub. I don't know the story behind the costume or the name, but seeing her like this makes me grin even on days like today.

My sister loved life. She made having fun a way of life. But to me she'll always be my baby sister - the one who left us too soon but made a mark on us all that will never fade. As I look back I think of ways I could have been a better sister because, unfortunately, miles separated us her whole life. But I know that she knew I loved her.

I miss her every day. I can't watch this slideshow any day of the year without sobbing, but I wanted to post the link in case anyone wanted to see her life in pictures. This is the slideshow we presented during her memorial service, and it's filled with pictures that show a life of love and happiness. And in the end, that's the most I can hope for - that she had a happy life and knew she was loved by many.

http://www.siacinc.org/docs/VIDEO/elena-hs.wmv