My Great Grandparents had five children.Due to economic reasons all three sons emigrated after the 1926 depression here.Two to Canada one to Austalia.It was not until long after their parents died that two sons returned to visit.In those days their task was to forge a new life in a new world.money was needed to do that.
Her two daughters stayed locally.
These sisters remained close until death for my Greataunt Kate.Their children all being close.It made for much interaction as all we children in time(my generation)joind this clan.So I attended many wedding social events and due to this gained so much.
For I believe socialisation is equal to education.That in tandem it is what makes us all ready for the world.Within the safety of my own "tribe" I was nurtured.Never allowed to feel afraid .nor ever allowed to "be conceited or get above myself"
yet never put down.Each saturday evening when the radio played the adults rolled back the rugs and we danced.Whoever called would join in.I would sit on top of the sideboard and sing solo Scottish songs.word perfect.My party piece.One day I said I would like to listen and not sing..This was OK too
I had two older cousins and a second cousin from Aunt Kate.from them I Learned about school before I started and later the facts of life filtered down.they did my plaits then curled my hair.I used their moses basket.. their pram.. wore their clothing.In turn cousins learned from me.SO a shared kinship set me on my way to adulthood.
Even now I can feel the blanket of security family gave me.If ever I have felt low just remembering keeps me going.
In caring and teaching my first values have equiped me to build foundations for others.
Friends have brought joy and expanded my life but my kin shaped me..
Mountain ash