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The Old Red Blanket

It haven’t had much to say, since my brother John died.  

He was 2 years older than I, in a pack of many kids, we were closest in age.
He always referred to me, as his ‘little sister’.

In this last year, I called him often.  He did not want to be asked how he felt, so I usually started the conversations with, ‘do you remember when?’

‘Do you remember the tents we built with the red blanket?’

‘Do I ever!’

Masterful backyard overnight structures were erected with a red blanket, a baseball bat, some bricks and plenty of nails.

He was always fairly intense, opinionated and bossy.  Our mother described him as having a ‘short fuse’.  I could not guarantee that he would not pick on me, but it was always a safe bet, that he’d never let anyone else pick on me.

Together this June, I was aware, that there was a possibility that when I said goodbye to him, that it could be the last time I saw him.

In our last phone call he said in a matter of fact way,

“Live your life and I love you”

In loving memory

John Stuart Fisher

3-18-57 to 11-11-18

…and I the little sister, have been blessed.

 

{ 10 comments… add one }
  • Judith Dahlson December 17, 2018, 9:23 am

    What a lovely tender tribute to your brother Ellen – you remain in my prayers dear friend.

    • Ellen December 20, 2018, 6:03 am

      Thank you, my friend. Love you.

  • Diane Brown December 4, 2018, 7:52 am

    I think of you often. Know you are hurting. Praying for you. Miss being with you. Love you bunches.

    • Ellen December 4, 2018, 7:23 pm

      Thank you so much, my dear friend.

  • Kathleen Mendez December 2, 2018, 7:11 pm

    How sweet a moment your last words with him. A treasure for sure for the rest of your life. I grieve with you for the loss of a loved one. I just saw this so I am late in providing my condolences. You are blessed and grateful yet grieving. All are emotions given to us by our Creator and all are known to Him. I am so glad we saw you this September but sure wish I could give you a hug right now. Take care, Dear Ellen.

    • Ellen December 3, 2018, 7:09 pm

      Thank you so much Kathleen, your words are a hug straight to my soul.

  • Arden November 28, 2018, 8:50 pm

    Having also lost a brother, my heart goes out to you. A lovely post in remembrance of John. May your memories offer you comfort.

    • Ellen November 29, 2018, 6:37 am

      Thank you, Arden. I appreciate your comments.

  • Miriam Ellis November 28, 2018, 9:09 am

    My heart goes out to you, Ellen. It sounds like you have many wonderful memories of growing up with him. Sending huge hugs your way.

    • Ellen November 28, 2018, 2:41 pm

      Thank you so much, my friend. Looking through the old pictures was a joy, appreciate having them.

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