Yes, strange blog title. But there are many stories about Bubba and Auntie to share, and all have interesting dynamics and twists.
Bubba and Auntie are sisters. Bubba is the oldest. Auntie is about nine years younger.
Bubba had her knee replaced last year and survived like a real trooper. Spinal issues bother her more with age, but she doesn’t let that compromise her zest for living. Although, occasional pain and stiffness does slow her down and force her to move with caution. None of us want Bubba to fall, which has happened, but thankfully nothing that didn’t self-correct with some rehab, patience, and TLC.
Bubba is a very level and clear thinking woman, wise beyond her years. I have always taken her words and suggestions seriously. Strangely she is often right. Now I take what she says as fact, no questions asked. More recently she is sharing untold stories from her past, in full detail. Recently I learned that she and her siblings called one of their great-grandmothers “Bubba.” She laughed and said she honestly didn’t know if that name was one she was taught or it was the only thing she could say as a small child! We wondered if the term “Bubba” was short for a Russian/Polish/Ukraine term,” studda bubba”, which means “old woman…” It was a term tossed around among family members in years past. Who knows?
So, on vacation not long ago, my young granddaughter, after a week of consideration, proclaimed with pride and much pleasure her great-grandmother to be “Bubba.” It was solidified one morning with a leg hug and a very clear voice that said “I love you, Bubba.” “Bubba” it was, and she melted with the experience.
Auntie is a bubbly and energetic lady whose love of and care for others know no limits. She is the sort of person who would give the shirt off her back, especially to family and dear friends. Auntie is a very loving and giving individual, sometimes to a fault, and sometimes at too great a cost to herself. Convincing her of the importance of setting boundaries and taking care of herself is a huge challenge. We can all see how the unlimited giving of self can take its toll on her health and well-being. But she is stubborn. Definite family trait…
Auntie can’t hear very well these days. Rumor has it she has been recommended two hearing aids. Cost could always be an issue, as it is for most folks, but denial plays a part as well. Auntie is a forever teenager in her mind, which will keep her young and active, but drive the rest of us nuts! It is hard to repeat every phrase and conversation and constantly shout for any extended period of time. Bubba confesses that when she visits Auntie the TV and radio are so loud that she has to turn her own hearing aid off!!
But despite all, Bubba and Auntie love each other dearly and have always been very close even though for most of their lives they have lived on opposite ends of the country. Visits are not as frequent as they would like, but always very special. Conversations are regular and important. Unlimited long distance calling is their lifeline as sisters. Bubba and Auntie lost two of their brothers last summer, only one month apart. An older brother died in an auto accident back in the 1960s. Yet they remain optimistic — two devoted sisters, committed to loving and enjoying each other. The rest of us seek out opportunities to facilitate their connections and visits. In the process we learn a great deal about the importance of family bonds and meaningful and durable relationships, plus laugh a lot along the way. Not bad!
Stay tuned for more tales about Bubba and Auntie…