November 22, 20ll Keeping the entire Nestico family in my prayers tonight.I know Aurelio is in heaven tonight with his sister (my much adored Nonna) Valeria and brother-in-law Vincenzo (my beloved Nonno). We must never forget all the lessons we have learned about love, loyalty, and family from each of them. The Nestico/Mirarchi clan would not have come to America had it not been for the bravery, hard work, and determination of these extraordinary people. Now more than ever it is important that we continue to carry on the family stories and record what we remember so we can share these memories with future generations as authentically as they were told to us. I know Aurelio would expect nothing less than perfection from us in documenting our family history. Don't worry Great Zio Aurelio, we'll tell your story with a smile on our faces and pride filled hearts. Your children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, and all of us will not forget the sacrifices you, Great Zia Concetta, my Nonna Valeria, and Nonno Vincenzo have made for us. Though it saddens me to think this is a generation lost, I find confort in knowing that I have a family legacy so strong that it has taken root in my very soul. I carry Valeria, Vincenzo, and now Aurelio with me as my own personal angels on my shoulders, guiding me in my day to day life. It will take our family some time to mend our broken hearts over this loss. But as long as we keep family first in our hearts, as Aurelio and Valeria have modeled for us in their own lives, we'll find the courage and conviction to write our new family stories. Much love to my family, Nestico and Mirarchi alike. Ti voglio bene! Marianna