Memories of a gentle and generous heart flood my mind when I think of my

Aunt Helen ~ my Godmother. Most of my time was spent with her during my

childhood years ~ her sweet smile, kindnesses, and open heart have remained in my thoughts throughout my life. During the lean years of the 40's and 50's, everytime I saw my Aunt Helen and My Uncle Carmine was a little bit of Christmas ~ it was a 'happy house' to me where there was laughter, loving words, Louie Prima songs, hugs, treats, and the scents of wonderful Italian dishes permeating throughout the little apartment that I loved. It was everyday that I was invited to walk over to Aunt Helen and Uncle Carmine's house to have lunch in lieu of the school cafeteria ... Uncle Carmine would even give

me money occasionally to buy Italian Sub Sandwiches (a major treat) from the neighborhood Italian

Deli for me and Aunt Helen the next day ... 'or' it was one of Aunt Helen's special lunches prepared 'for me.' I loved playing with my

baby cousins 'the twins' ... and the days when I would visit 'after school' were wonderful family times ... what has always stood out in my mind is the excitemeht that would fill the house when it was time for

Uncle Carmine to come home ... Aunt Helen would say, he's coming soon ... he's coming soon ... and she would get me as excited as she was. Then in the door he would come ... a tootsie roll lollypop or something equally as

scrumptious for me. Aunt Helen and Uncle Carmine adored each other ... and now, knowing they are together forever, brings joy to my heart.

Thank you for such wonderful memories ... you cannot imagine how often those memories fill my heart and bring me back to a very happy place ...

... my hugs to you both. Ti amo ...

Your niece,

Cooky ... xox