I grew up going out to visit Auntie Robin and the family in Sooke almost every year. It was quite the journey that we made travelling from Calgary, but one that I looked forward to. We were packed full with my parents, aunt, brother and cousins. Most of the time, (who am I kidding, ALL of the time), I would arrive car sick and pale faced. But as soon as we pulled into the driveway and Auntie Robin ran out of the house waving frantically with the biggest smile on her face, I forgot I even felt sick. It was usually Easter when we made the trip out and so we always had the annual easter egg hunt. The kids loved running around the yard looking for chocolates. I always remember looking for the eggs, and Auntie Robin would catch my eye and give me a little point and nod towards one.
Auntie Robin had a huge heart, and was so welcoming to us. I always felt at ease around her. When I was younger, I thought Auntie Robin was the coolest aunt around. I felt so lucky to be related to her and admired her for all the hard work she put in to the community. As I reached high school, I began to get to know Auntie Robin on a deeper level. One of my favourite parts of visiting was going for walks late at night. Auntie Robin was so wise and had so much insight. I could have spent a lifetime learning from her. At the end of the walks, we would sometimes lay on the road staring up at the stars. Auntie Robin helped me appreciate the simple things in life. I also quickly found out she was absolutely hilarious. She always had me laughing so hard I had tears in my eyes. Her life was contagious. I will always have a vivid memory of Auntie Robin sitting on the floor while my brother gave her a back massage, while the rest of the family sat around drinking tea. I remember a feeling of complete happiness to be there in her company. She was a wonderful woman, I only wish that I had more time with her. Robin will be missed by all that knew her and her memory will live in on forever.