My earliest memories of my Aunt Nan were at the Olde Stagecoach Trail Campground. How many kids can say their Aunt and Uncle owned a campground? She packed the days with fun events that kept campers coming back year after year, and some were year-round residents, because they loved being there. Campfires, hayrides, (complete with Jersey Devil sightings) horseback riding, seafood cookouts, singalongs, luaus poolside (yes, I was dressed up in a grass skirt and danced the hula, and not just because I was an adorable 4-year-old) costume contests … you name it and my Aunt Nan planned it, executed it and made it a hugely memorable success! I remember going blueberry picking in the woods of Mays Landing at the Campground and Nanny's house. Not only did I get blueberries, but I also got chiggers (not good!) Luckily, Aunt Nan knew just what to do, and in a short time, I was chigger-free once more. She let me pick berries from all over the campground, retrieve eggs from angry geese, throw bread to the ducks on the pond, play with the goat, the dogs, the horses and basically run around like a maniac all over the campground. What a fortunate kid I was, having an indulgent aunt who gave me the freedom to explore, resulting in incredible memories of an amazing childhood! Aunt Nan used to dress up in costumes and show up in unusual places. I remember a turkey, bear, jersey devil, clown, hobo … I know there were more, but just these few should speak volumes about the fun-loving nature of my aunt! Not many people could dress up in these costumes, leave inhibitions behind and give/feel so much enjoyment! She played the piano, and even had a portable organ in her motorhome, so she could have her music with her on the trip back and forth between New Jersey and Florida. Her devotion to my Uncle Eddie, and his to her, was immediately evident when you encountered them; you rarely saw one without the other. They had a long, happy marriage, and I’d say their secret was that they truly enjoyed each other’s company. She was a dynamo of energy, and never seemed to slow down. She was filled with strength, capability, determination, kindness and fun. She touched many people’s lives and her memory will live on through them, because my Aunt Nan was a lady that once met, you could never forget.