Dispatches From the Games 2014: 8 - Dispatch From a Mother-in-Law

The End

Empress Eleanor

The first time Jean and I went to Italy together, I wrote back home to her folks, thanking them for their part in making possible all the fun I was having.

In my usual convoluted prose, I likened them to Augustus and Lidia*. He - the Roman emperor who called himself just a citizen, and she - the emperor’s wife, who set standards of civilized behavior that we still use today. The last thing I wrote to them those many years ago was, “Wish you were here.” Charlie is gone, but Eleanor, at 93 is here with us - to fulfill that wish.

Muse for the media

How lucky am I to have lived my life. To have been born unto my own storied parents, then after losing them - to be able to call another “empress“ Mom - to have another lady able to steer, lead by example and most of all - flat-out inspire me - inspire all of us.

Leading by example.

Infecting Smiles

Her quiver of kind words and smile-tipped arrows always hits the hearts of those nearby - be they her kin, or the waitress or the complete stranger or the Head of State - or just an adopted son-in-law.

You've got to try this!

Let's try this.

Slowed not stopped.

Who? How? Why?

While others her age sit home, bemoan the fate of the aged and ruminate on events long ago digested - she wants to try every new dish - and then insist everyone share it. To see the Roman ruins, to learn about the Etruscans. She wants to go down into the caves. She wants to hear the music, ride thru the night to simply find out what’s out there. See the moon. Cheer and dance.

1000 feet below Carrara

Legendettes Drill Team

She may need an arm to steady her, or legs to peddle her and she may forget what she can’t see or hear so well - but she is here. And I am glad I got my wish.

- Son-in-Law Stew

Her loving family

*PS - Continuing the Kitto/Augustus family parallels may not be a good idea. While I could paint myself as Tiberius, grandson Charlie II would then be Caligula, the mad Emperor that had to be popped off by his own guards; then great grandson Charlie III becomes Claudus who would get poisoned after having his wife killed. And of course, Bill, as Agrippa, would have to be executed.