Day 249: I ♥ Cousin Katha ...

I have four cousins. 

When you are an only child, cousins are a treasure.

Born to Russel and Fern Shoemaker ...

Katha was raised on the family farm, Lebanon, Indiana.

A beautiful only child, her parent's pride and joy.

Grandpa Beatty and Katha were buddies.

Katha, Aunt Fern, me, Sally

When our family would return to Indiana, 

our visits with Katha's family were so special.

Katha had kittens, chickens, ducks, calves and a lamb.

Later she was in 4-H where she not only showed animals ...

but cooked, sewed and won dress reviews.

I remember her wall being full of blue ribbons.

In high

school 

she was a

cheer-

leader, 

and a member 

of the

Sugarettes

singing

group.

Katha met boyfriend, Chuck, as a sophomore 

in high school. He later became her husband.

Katha was a cheerleader at Butler University where she 

graduated with Bachelor and Masters degree in education.

Katha and Chuck's first child, Alana.

Followed by daughter, Carmen and son, David.

Married 48 years, this was a great love story. 

Three children, six grandchildren, and six great-grandchildren. 

Katha retired after 38 years as an award-winning teacher.

She is our family historian, avid reader, writer, 

dog lover, treasured by all.

Happy Birthday Katha!