First cousins

Being first cousins has always been something very special over the years. I think my first memories of you were as a child when you visited the Wilmington Blackley Clan after Vietnam. I guess you can tell me about those years. I remember the convertible you had and took Scott (my brother) and I for a ride to Lonnie’s house on Masonboro Sound. Scott and I always loved the barnyard animal sounds you concocted and now carry on that tradition with our children. I guess it is not just barnyard animals, but really anything silly that we all enjoy.

I remember your wedding, I could not attend because I had chicken pox. I wish I could have been in the balcony with the other cousins when the photographer did what he did. I’m sure you know that story. When I was attending college in Greensboro, your home was always open and proved to be a good road trip to get away from school and the fire station.

You and Sandie have always opened your house to our crowd as we grew in numbers. I remember the first trip we took with Eleni away from home was to your house when she was about seven months old. That was the trip with mom and dad, Uncle Jack and Aunt Simone, and I believe Molly even came home for the weekend. I can still hear Uncle Jack (Apple Jack for Molly and Seth) calling Eleni his “little princess.” Those trips have always been a blast for the girls as they still talk about the harmonica, the fish pond, frogs in the pool, or just the pool in general. Lindsey's memory is her falling in the pool with her clothes still on and not in a bathing suit. LOL!

Recently you have been there to offer suggestions and information concerning dad’s back problems and eventual surgery. It gave mom a greater peace of mind prior to the surgery to know she could count on your help. I guess I could keep going, but I guess I will stop while I am ahead.

Thanks for all you have done and will continue to do in the years to come. Enjoy retirement!

Love,

Frank, Kathy, Eleni, and Lindsey Blackley
Wilmington, NC