Easters remembered
Many an Easter was spent in Borrego Springs. And often many
of the younger Anderson’s were there for Spring Break. That’s back when there
was a common one week break from school. Mainly it was the CAMA Anderson’s and
sometimes even CAMA themselves (more on who CAMA is later).
Which of you remember the hike to a desert oasis which turned
out to be a small puddle of water? There we shared oranges. Our reward for the
hike? David nor Janie/Mama joined us for that hike. They were the smart ones
that day. We, who went, gave Papa a bad time about that hike that seemed long and
hot.
Another hike to the top of the ridge behind Desert Sands,
where Mama and Papa lived. In my attempt to save one of my nephews from a
chollas cactus, I got near enough that it “jumped” onto my leg. David took out his
comb and removed the offending piece of cactus. Later I had several nice red
welts to show for my efforts. I’m not sure but I think it was Peter who I was
attempting to save. Was it?
Don’t tell anybody but once travel to CA is “deemed safe”,
some of David’s’ ashes will be joining those of Nana and Janie/Mama. Borrego
holds many fond memories of camping/RVing, hiking, family gatherings, 4 wheel
rides and desert blooms. It will always be a special place. Many happy hours have
been spent in and around that area.
Many of you reading this will know who CAMA is and the story
behind initials. When David and I first got together and sent or received mail,
we used the initials DAMA – David Anderson Marilyn Archer, that became our
identifier. And it caught on with the rest of the Andersons and the folks, RAJA,
incorporated theirs into a couple of personalized license plates. After I
somewhat reluctantly changed my name to Anderson (only because name change is
such a hassle, about as much of a hassle as becoming a person again after the
death of your husband who “owned” everything. LOL) It then stood for David and
Marilyn Anderson. So now I am just MA, sure do miss DA.
Grateful that David is not here now during this isolation.
He was very much a people person and I’m not sure how he would do with out people
contact. However, now that I think about it, guess his last weeks, if not
months was with very little friend/family contact. That’s not counting doctors
and nurses, as he had chemo and even a CT right til the very end. And while not
family, they certainly were caring. Even my last phone conversation with
David’s oncologist, he said how he enjoyed talking with David, wait, I think
that was his GP who called to offer his condolences and ask if I needed
anything. The accuracy of my memory is greatly suspect these days!
I just came in from the Golf Cart Easter Parade around our
park and the neighbor park. 29 carts, 2 bicycles and 2 scooters. What fun! See
pictures on FB. It’s a little bitter sweet. I am with a new group of friends,
heading forward to new adventures. I think David would be happy that I have
gotten involved and joined in activities. Only a few knew or met David which is
a mixed bag of thoughts and feelings. That makes it easier or is it harder?
Either way, I am grateful that I am exactly in the right place at the right
time. Give hugs to those you can, call or text those you can’t hug right now.
Happy Easter.
