By Danielle Rubino

By 8 a.m., while most are rushing out the door in hopes of beating rush hour traffic, the telephone will ring over three times. The first call will be placed around the unspeakable hour that is 6 a.m. Followed by one at 7 a.m. and then an hour later. Who is calling at such strange hours? It is none other then my mothers’ sisters--my aunts. This trio of women truly amazes me. Each of them is unique; yet they are so alike in many ways. Ranging from fifty-five to fifty they’re as close as close gets. A blonde, a red head, and a brunette, the three of them are unstoppable. My aunts, Carmela and Donna, complete my mother in ways that I’ve been blessed to witness.

I often wondered during my youth if all sisters were like them. I’d find myself thinking of the future and questioning whether or not my sisters and I would emulate them. Secretly, I hoped so. Despite the fact that our age difference is against us, (we’re eight and nine years apart) we are, in spite of everything, extremely close.  

Throughout my life it has almost been like having two extra moms. I know both of my aunts have my best interest at heart and considers their nieces and nephews as one their own. I’ve learned a great deal from having such a close relationship with my aunts—to always be myself, to overcome obstacles, and how family is always the number one priority. Each of them has experienced their amount of ups and downs in life—the loss of their parents, divorce, and the process of aging; but still enjoy life and it’s greatness. Carmela, the oldest, is dramatic but loving, my mother is gentle and kind, and lastly, Donna is not afraid to speak her mind.  

Now that I’m older I appreciate the strength of their relationship even more. I talk to both of them at least once a day and find myself missing them if I go a few days without seeing them. In a way, it’s been a blessing and a curse to be raised so close. In a way I feel like I’m damaged because my family has always been there for me; which will make it harder for me in the long run to leave them. Going to college was fine because it was fun, temporary, and almost as if I was living another life. It scares me to think that if I were ever to relocate for a job or marriage that I’d be too far from my family.

Then again, as the saying goes, home is where the heart is. And this heart of mine could not feel anymore loved or blessed to be part of such a family.

Danielle Rubino is a freelance writer.