Lia, I can't believe it's been almost 22 years since you've been gone. It's funny how in retrospect, I only really 'knew' you in my childhood .. maybe 7 years or so, yet you've left such a lasting impact of love and memories.
I just was looking at the map view of Clover and thinking of all the 'buried treasure' we used to put down your Grandmoms black lamppost hole.... it looks like it's still there. I would so love to see what's in there now!! The firmica rocks that you used to collect and got me into.... playing quicksand and toe jam and earl.... all the scary movies we would rent from Gloria's store and then I couldn't even sleep in my own bed for 2 years.... going to the Italian festival and me wishing I was Italian just to be closer to you! Playing barbies for hours or eating at Gloria's and having to be so careful not to get any crumbs from the BBQ fritos (our favorite) on her pristine floor (forget even thinking of sitting and eating on the couch!)... the hand written notes, the sleepovers, the time I almost drowned at Gloria's new place, trips to the beach, the list goes on and on....I was your little sidekick that you could boss around since I was 3 years younger and I loved every minute of it. I miss you and always reach out to you thru prayer.
Keep watching over us Lee. Xox