A Legacy Only a Smick Chick Can Understand

I am sure everyone is finally getting back into the swing of school and unfortunately already has a full load of homework. I hate to say it but I wish that were the case for me. I am still at home on winter break waiting to go to Ireland for the semester.  I have gotten to the point where I do not know what to do with myself. I have turned into a couch potato, been a second soccer mom for my sister, and have had one too many conversations with my pets.

I leave for Ireland this Monday and have been ready to go since last Monday. But really. I have been packed and ready to go for a week now. (Can you tell I am getting a little antsy to leave?)

Today I decided it would be a good idea to repack to make sure everything I needed fits into my two suitcases and two carry-on items. I mean what else am I suppose to do with my time than unpack and re-pack everything?

But the most important thing I will be bringing with me on my little adventure is my Saint Mary’s class ring.

I am pretty sure every underclassman at this school can’t wait for the day she can get her ring. They are gorgeous and I may be a little biased, but I think they are the prettiest class rings of any school.

For Christmas this year, one of my presents was my class ring. Yes, I understand I am only a sophomore and you are supposed to get your ring when you are a junior. However, I was fortunate enough to be able to get mine as a sophomore.

The Saint Mary’s Class of 1981 was blessed enough to have an incredible woman in their class. This woman was Kathy Duffey; my aunt.  

When I was younger, my aunt passed away from Breast Cancer. My aunt did the Ireland study abroad program when she went to Saint Mary’s. So, this Christmas, my uncle thought that it would be nice for me to have a little part of her watching over me while I am in Ireland.

Even though I was so young when she passed, I feel a connection to her now that I have her ring.

Now whenever I look at the inside of my ring and see her initials and class year engraved, I will be reminded of my aunt who was loved by so many people. 

Photos provided by the author

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