Uncle Bill

My mom has a very small family, so when my favorite Uncle Bill recently passed away (he was her cousin, but "Uncle" to me) she asked me to meet her in Kansas to help go through his things. I'm so glad I did! I was able to spend time with my Aunt Helen, Aunt Susan and Aunt Sheila (again - all cousins :) and it was wonderful. I didn't take my camera with me as it was starting to have problems, and now I really regret it.....

We worked like crazy to go through and clean out his things. I feel very blessed to have brought back a few special memories. My Uncle Bill was a fabulous person to me growing up. He always called me "Blissy" and taught me how to play cribbage. His BBQ's were the best and he supported my teenage years by purchasing whatever silly fundraiser I was involved in and coming to many dance and band performances.

Love him.

Bill's mother's (my Aunt Ling) collection

of L.M. Montgomery books.

thank you, Susan!

My uncle collected liquor memorabilia -

so I picked out a Yukon Jack Canadian Whiskey box.

Doesn't every good mormon have a whiskey box in their living room?

My mom is moving here in two years,

so she shipped her box with mine.

Don't they look great together? Sorry mom, they are both mine now :)

This is a beautiful hand-painted Alaskan piece.

I love it!

Kindly ignore the inch of dust and dirty Ulu knife.

I'll clean more in my next life.

My uncle was an artist, and I have always loved his work.
I brought home quite a bit and will show more as I get it framed.

There were quite a few pewter pieces,
so I picked out one for each of the kids.
Love the ribs sticking out on the dog.

My uncle had the most amazing collection of ivory pieces.
I was grateful to bring home a few tie tacs,
a bracelet and a few other trinkets.
(awful picture taken with my awful backup camera)
Most of all, I am grateful for the time I spent with family. Nice.