Aunt Jutta has a special place in my heart.  She was there for me as a child when my parents were having issues.  She treated me as if I was one of her own when I was there to visit or stay for a few days.  She always had alot going on in her own everyday life but always had room to be a special person to others including myself.  I remember one particular conversation I had with her about Chistmas and Santa.  All of us were in the basement watching the where about of Santa on a 19" or 21" TV.  The adults were sipping on drinks and most of us kids were glued to the TV.  They announced that Santa was near us and we all got so excited.  It was still early in the night and it wasn't time to go to bed.  My father (Reinhard) and I still had to travel 50 plus miles to get home once we left.  I was so worried that Santa wouldn't come to my house be cause I was still here at my Aunt and uncles house.  Aunt Jutta must have seen the worry in my face.  She came over and asked me to come upstairs with her to talk.  I went with her.  She gave me some cookies and asked me what was wrong.  I explained my concern to her.  Like a mother would do for her own, she eplained that Santa will always make it to your house as long as you were good.  She said you have been good and not to worry.  Santa knows where I am and will wait to stop by my house once I am home and asleep.  I asked her are you sure?  She said I promise and gave me a hug.  I had still a small worry, but you know what happened don't you?  She was right and even though  I arrived at my house at 2:30 AM, Santa came to my house!  I had to call her up on Christmas morning and let her know she was right!  She laughed in excitement and asked me what I got from Santa.  We talked for awhile.  That experience for me was very special and I will never forget it! She will always have a special place in my heart.  This story will also stay with me and inspires me to be a good father and uncle  to my own kids and others.  

She will be missed but always hold a special place in my heart!

JEFF MASKOS