by Mary (Lockwood) Branin
Photo: Mary and Florence 1932
What would my life have been like if I hadn’t had a sister? I want you to know that you really made a difference for me.
As a teenager I was so shy and introverted that I would not have had a social life except that you let me follow around in your shadow. I enjoyed the activities of your circle of friends instead of spending my time reading.
When we went to San Diego I know I would not have had the nerve to buy a bus pass, obtain a city map and start to find my way around the city. We even got to Asbury Methodist Church where I met and made some friends who still keep in touch.
You married and moved to Wisconsin, which pushed me to come out of my shell and make some of my own friends. When I got a job in the Welfare Department I was further able to build some self-esteem. I must have reached out to the fellow workers and so was able to latch on to Herman.
When you came back to San Diego from Wisconsin you shared your son, Dennis, and I began perfecting my mothering skills. You even shared him when we moved to Escondido to raise our children. He is a big part of our memories of the growing-up years.
Over the years you invited your nieces and later nephews to spend time at your home. That gave Herman and me a break from constant parenting and some quiet time when a new baby joined our family. You sometimes sent them home with new dresses you had sewn or pretty new shoes.
It was in May of 1952 when you encouraged us to try camping. We had little equipment but with your help we gradually developed camping skills, added gear and began a lifelong enjoyment of the outdoors. Our children have all come to enjoy this activity which was the best and most affordable use of our vacation time.
I remember at Big Basin State Park when you were willing to sit in camp with our two girls so I could get out on the trail with Dennis. I never needed a lot of time away from my children but occasionally it was a refreshing break.
When our father was in the nursing home I felt honored that I could be the main supportive family member but you and Mark always backed us up and did everything to help in a bad situation. Herman and I are so grateful.
We have had some memorable trips overseas and you have been a super navigator. You have an uncanny ability to find interesting places to explore and things to do.
Ellen hosted the first Lockwood reunion but you were the main one to keep the ball rolling. You have always been the leader in family togetherness. Some of the next generation has added to the reunions and Fay has always been a great hostess.
In the meantime, I believe you have been the one to keep constant contact with John and me so that we do not lose touch.
You can see now how much your presence in our family has meant and we want you to know you really made a difference.
Thank you for being there. The sister who loves you, Mary