The Weekend

by Anna Weihman

My niece Margareta came to visit us and stay for the weekend, while her parents were in Tahoe, when she was three and a half years old. It was the first time we had her for the weekend. When she was younger, we’d love to play, so I know she liked me, but she would cry whenever I would pick her up! Oh well. So one day Uncle Butch was at work, and Margareta and I walked to Ashton park. She was so tired from the walk, that when we got there we both just lay down on the grass and rested. Then she got up and played a little on the swings, and the slide. We started the walk back to the house, and I could tell that she was so sleepy that I carried her most of the way. I told her I was sorry, and we’d be home soon, and we’d have mac and cheese for lunch, and ice cream, and then take a nap. I remember feeling that this was true love, when time stood still, and it felt like the two of you were the only people in the world. I thought, this is a moment and a feeling that has been given to me to always cherish.

So, the next day we drove to the park with Margareta and Butch and my Mom. She played and ran and smiled and played. Then she sat down on the bench next to Butch, and completely mimicked his slouch and look of being tired. On the way home she was throwing her stuffed animal at Butch over and over. So, he decided to throw it back. Then she said “I’m going to put YOU in a timeout!” We all burst out laughing. I laugh every time I think of this. Little one, you will always be a part of me.

Submitted by Anna Weihman  in loving memory of her niece, Margareta Kubitz.

Some photos from that weekend: [nggallery id=1]